Christian Jewish Marriage Rite of Passage Christian marriage

Christian / Jewish Marriage Rite of Passage

Christian marriage What is it? • The Christian churches require the couple to be over the age of consent (18 years), but will allow marriage with written consent of both parents or with the approval of a judge or magistrate.

Christian Marriage • What is involved • Christian marriage is a public ceremony. • The two give witness to their love for each other. • Those involved are: The bridesmaid and best man, who act as witnesses, families and friends, and a priest or minister/pastor.

Christian Marriage • Venue • Christian wedding ceremonies take place in a church. • Some are now hiring hotels and expensive halls. The important thing is that the two are blessed.

Christian Marriage • Importance of being married in church: • Is seen as a way to physical and spiritual fulfillment and it mirrors the unity between Father, Son and Holy Spirit • The couple gets recognised by God and the Christian community • The two get their parents’ blessings • It is believed to be a good start • It enhances a lasting marriage as per the vows

Christian Marriage • Importance cont. • Commitment of husband wife reflects God’s covenant with His people. • Is a revelation of God and a channel of grace to each other and to those around them. • Helps couple to have blessed fruits e. g. children.

Christian Marriage • How they wed: • Different denominations have various rituals but there Are some which are common to all e. g. bridal procession, readings from the Bible, exchange of wedding vows and blessing and exchange of rings.

Christian Marriage • Symbols: 1. Marriage Vows: these promises are central to a Christian marriage ceremony. They affirm the Christian belief that marriage is a life long commitment. 2. Rings: The rings symbolise the commitment that people will always be true to each other. Love has no end as the rings are round.

Christian Marriage • Symbols cont. 3. Marriage certificate: Symbolise the legal requirement of the marriage. Signed by the bride, the groom and the two witnesses. 4. White clothes: Is a symbol of purity 5. Veil: Is a symbol of modesty, beauty for the husband only and virginity.

• Thank so much and be blessed • By Sam Mezuzah