Should people be allowed to marry in church even if they do not attend church?

Answer 1

Whereas it is true that people 'marry each other' it is a statistical fact that those who marry in church are much less likely to divorce or have problems with their marriage than those who marry elsewhere or co-habit without marriage. I am not citing any particular reason for this, but statistically it is a fact that should be taken seriously. Many people who marry in church believe that, as there are 'three' people in their marriage - the bride, the groom - and God - then their marriage is somehow more of an occasion, it is a life-changing event and is blessed by someone pretty special, rather than a quick afternoon in a registry office. In the Christian marriage the vows that are taken are far more intense than those in a civil marriage and need careful preparation and thought - and for some, prayer. Perhaps the intensity of the vows has something to do with the longer lasting church marriages as both partners realise that they have to make a real commitment to the other person rather than something that is less intense. With The Temptations of society and the increased occurrence of adultery, the blessing placed on a married couple in church ("that which GOD has joined together, let no man [or woman] divide") must have a profound effect on the lasting relationship that that couple enjoys. Unlike the previous which describes a more secular union, Christians believe that, whilst the two people marry each other by consent, God places the seal on their marriage and the two people become as one - as confirmed by Christ himself (Matthew 19: 4-6 or Mark 10: 6-9).

As for whether a couple should be able to be married in church there are two schools of thought on this. First there are the hardliners who believe that unless someone is a church attender they should not be married in church as the vows will presumably be meaningless to them. This suggests (rather judgingly) that the couple are non-believers and is rather exclusive as if the church is only meant for its own and not those outside. Jesus welcomed everyone - even the outcasts of society, and so, in my personal opinion, this approach is wrong.

Secondly, there are those who accept anyone for marriage in church. This approach can be a little exploitative of the church's good nature but as the church is called to minister to everyone then this should be the right approach. In my own church in the UK anyone living in the vicinity, or who have family in the vicinity, or who have some other connection with the vicinity can be married in church - even if they are non-attenders. However, all couples undergo a short 'course' (in reality a few visits) where the nature of Christian marriage is spelled out, and the nature and profundity of their vows are explained and the logistic details of the ceremony are ran through. One would hope and pray that, if thet are non-attenders, they might feel that God is calling them to attend church afterwards, but this is not a requirement. Real evangelism is accepting people just where they are, warts and all, and if, by being friendly, inclusive, welcoming and loving towards them, a few seeds are planted of what Christianity is really all about, then who knows what will happen in their lives later on when they may wish to turn back to that 'third person' in their marriage.

Answer 2

There are many religious people who do not get married in a church. Many people are married by an ordained minister, pastor or priest on beaches, at resorts, friends homes etc. Regardless of where you are married, the ceremony usually involves inviting God to your wedding. The other option, and many people do this, is to have two ceremonies. One in the church and then the other at the location of your choice. This dual option will most likely cost more money. There are many people who also believe God is everywhere at all times. I am sure He would be more than happy to attend outside of the church.

This is a matter of opinion. Since the institution of marriage predates the institution of the church by thousands of years, it seems obvious that "church weddings" are not necessary in order to be married in God's eyes.

Answer 3

Yes, the could the church isn't just the home of god, its the hove of life and love, let's go with that.

Answer 4

Because - while they may recognise the sanctity of the ceremony, they may not be religious enough to want to conduct the ceremony in a church !