Marriages Outside Church Buildings

Prologue: At the November 1992 meeting (page 7 of the minutes), Bishop Peck had put forward a motion before the House which was passed at the Diocese of Huron's Synod. The motion was about bishops restricting the Anglican clergy to conduct marriages in church building or chapels. At that meeting there was considerable discussion and the motion was tabled until the February 1993 House of Bishops. After much discussion the following motion was put forward.

Text of motion: That the House of Bishops affirm the principle that marriages by Anglican clergy be conducted in church buildings or chapels, with the proviso that the bishop have discretion to approve marriage taking place other than above where there are special pastoral needs and where pastoral oversight is maintained (assured). Further, that requests for consideration of marriages outside the church buildings or chapels be directed to the bishop for decision. CARRIED

Subjects: Churches - Anglican Church of Canada; Marriage service - Anglican Church of Canada; Marriage service - Location