Conditions Specified By Benedict XVI for Christian Matrimony

A wedding is not just the union of two individuals, but it also connects their souls and demands a sense of responsibility and acceptance from both partners. The entire life is insufficient to know each other. Tying a knot and be together as husband and wife is not easy. It demands some sacrifices and adaptation. Respecting the importance of marriage and the seeing the consequences of a bad wedding, Pope Benedict XVI has filed some specifications.

                                       

Here is a list of some of the new liturgy of marriage filed by Benedict XVI for Christian matrimony

1. The couple must be baptized and have agreed to the alliance.
2. Exemptions for disparity of worship will be issued after review of the maintenance and motivation of the couple.
3. The un-baptized Catholic couple must show their baptism certificate at the time of wedding.
4. Couples must make a clear commitment to raise their children as per the Catholic faith.
5. Preparation for the wedding is mandatory. It is implemented by the dioceses and organizations of the Priesthood, together within the pairs (in groups or with the celebrant, over several days or several months).
6. Emphasis in the wedding ceremony should be laid over the couple's commitment to fidelity.
7. The couple must believe in the Holy Spirit during the ceremony.
8. The imposition of hands of those of the celebrating couple is important; it symbolizes the union of church and torque.
9. An exchange of gifts with the celebrant can be made at the end of the ceremony.
10. The church can be decorated after being discussed with the celebrants.

Finally, the celebrant must ensure the church that his/her role will not end with the wedding day only. It is also a reference in case of marital problems and support in Christian matrimonial

Author: Rashmi Karan

Enjoy the Season of Love and Goodwill

Christmas is the time of spreading love and joy. The Yuletide spirit pervades in every part of the world. In India, where Hindu population is the majority, have many Christians as well. Patna, the capital of Bihar, has a good number of Christian populations residing in harmony with other religious communities. During the Christmas season, all the religious communities in the city celebrate this festival.

All the churches are illuminated and decorated with holly leaves, stars and Christmas trees. Themes from the Bible are created in the churches. The homes of the faithful are decorated with lights, stars and trees. The message of love and brotherhood is spread with families and friends distributing gifts. Spirit of love is in the air during the celebrations. This same spirit is found during christian matrimony functions.

Christians turn up in huge number on the eve of Christmas and attend the midnight mass. This is the time of festivities and carnivals are organized. Children and adults sings Christmas carols and many are dresses as Santa Claus. People, Christians and non-Christian visit the houses to share the joy and fun.

The markets have all the Christmas paraphernalia displayed. Items like Santa caps, fairies, starlight trees, candy sticks and plum cakes attract buyers. Shops near churches and in popular markets in the city stock them in advance.

The churches in the city donated warm clothes to the needy. Christmas spirit is incomplete without less fortunate brethren not receiving gifts. There are also cultural activities organized by the churches and the rich and poor participating. The missionary schools in the city also distributed cakes, sweets and candies.

This is the occasion when one likes to spend time with near and dear ones. These same emotions are reflected during the christian matrimonial functions. The various rituals not only bring the family closer, but the fun-element in the rituals reinvigorates the human bonds.

Author: Shipra Sinha