Monday, October 5, 2009

Marriage Banns

If there is any impediment by which this Matrimony cannot be performed, you should notify the Pastor under obligation of serious matter. Queen of Angels Church Bulletin, Oct. 4, 2009

The marriage banns for the Oct. 23 wedding have been posted on the church doors for quite a while now--I'm guessing it's been at least two months. Yesterday, Fr. Zendejas announced them from the pulpit for the first time, and they were published in the bulletin. This will be done two more times. I don't know the couple, but I still feel excited for them. It's been a while since we have had a wedding at Queen of Angels. (It's been a banner year for babies, though, and we've got more on the way!)

Before I came to Tradition, I was always a little taken aback by the conventional movie line, "If anyone knows a reason why this couple should not be joined in Holy Matrimony, speak now or forever hold your peace." I thought it extremely cruel, because I thought the only time the reason could be given was during the ceremony. Now I know that the Catholic Church provides ample opportunity before the ceremony for any impediments to be brought to the attention of the priest.

Of course, we have to know what these impediments are. For a quick review, read Fish Eaters' article, Holy Matrimony. If you have more time, I recommend Fr. Cooper's video .

2 comments:

Marie said...

I think the practice of marriage banns is so beautiful. Horrible shame it's not practiced universally.

Wendy Haught said...

I love it, too. We've lost a lot. We also need to bring back the lovely betrothal ceremony!