Reepham Benefice

We welcome all applications for marriage within the churches of the Benefice, from those who are legally entitled to marry here. We operate an “open door” policy with regard to those who have previously been married, although the final decision as to whether a marriage can take place where on or other party has been married before is subject to the completion of a confidential enquiry form, and the approval of one of our clergy.

What is Christian Marriage?

Christians believe that marriage is a gift from God where a man and woman enter into a lifelong formal relationship . In Marriage a couple become “on flesh” and make promises to live for each other , rather than promising to live simply with each other. Christians believe that marriage is the right relationship to engage in sexual relations and to build a family life. Being married in a church, in front of God, and in front of friends and family is very important.

A marriage is a public declaration of love and life-long commitment. These declarations are made in front of friends and family in a church ceremony.

Many people these day’s choose to marry in a civil ceremony (i.e. at a registry office), or in another place licensed for marriages. Marriage in Church brings an added dimension - the assurance that God cares about your relationship and that His resources and strength are available to help you. Including God in your marriage doesn't mean that you will avoid all the usual ups and downs, but you will know that you can look to God for help and guidance and that His love will sustain you. You will also have the support of the Christian Church family. This is why marriage is sometimes known as a “Pastoral Service” in that it is the start not only of your marriage relationship with each other, but it also is an opportunity for you to become more closely linked with the Church. We therefore take your marriage and our relationship with you very seriously. We want to make your day as happy and as memorable as possible, and to be there for you “for better and for worse” in the years ahead.

What is the procedure for marrying in the Reepham Benefice?

Firstly, you will need to contact the Ministry Team (see contact pages). An appointment will be made for you to meet with one of the team who will be able to tell you whether you meet the eligibility criteria. This involves the filling in of a number of forms, and in normal circumstances we are able to confirm quite quickly whether your marriage can take place in one of our churches. Your marriage date will then be confirmed for you in writing. You are strongly advised NOT to book your reception etc until we have confirmed your marriage date in writing. You will then have at least two meetings with one of the Ministry Team, or if he is unable to be available on your wedding date, another priest, to plan your big day. We aim to accommodate your wishes as far as we are able, as this is your day. One important part of the marriage process is that you are obliged to attend one of our marriage preparation evenings, which include a meal and glass or two of wine, and which have been very successful with couples who have attended.

How do I know if I fulfil the legal criteria?

Every couple’s circumstances are different. On October 2008, a set of new marriage regulations came into force which give more couples the right to be married in the Reepham Benefice. A brief summary of the regulations are set out below, and can be found in more detail on the Church of England website,

During your initial meeting with us, these regulations will be explained in more detail.

The Marriage Measure 2008 came into force on 1 October 2008.  It made a substantial difference to the arrangements before that date.  The concept of ‘residence’ was supplemented by a new range of “qualifying connections”.

In addition to residence in the parish or inclusion on the electoral roll, any couple may be married in any parish church provided that

One of the persons concerned:

• was baptised in the parish; or
• has been confirmed and the confirmation has been entered in a church register book belonging to the parish, (this would have been done on the basis that the person concerned was prepared for confirmation in the parish); or
• has at any time had his or her usual place of residence in the parish for at least 6 months; or
• has at any time habitually attended public worship in the parish for at least 6 months;

orr

• That person’s parent has at any time during the person’s lifetime:
• had his or her usual place of residence in the parish for at least 6 months; or
• habitually attended public worship in the parish for at least 6 months;

or

• That person’s parent or grandparent was married in the parish.