Once an application for marriage has been approved, public notice of the intended marriage will be given at the meeting(s) which the couple attend, and the area meeting will appoint, or ensure the appointment of, a meeting for worship for the solemnisation of the marriage. A brief explanation at the start of this meeting will generally be given for any of those attending who have not been to a Quaker marriage, or meeting, before. During the course of the meeting the couple will stand if able and exchange declarations of marriage in prescribed words (16.36-16.37). Wedding rings play no formal part in Quaker marriages, but many couples like to give each other rings after they have made their declarations. Neither photography, nor potentially disturbing electronic recording is suitable during the meeting for worship. At an appropriate stage during the meeting a certificate confirming the declaration is signed by the couple and two or more witnesses, and is then read aloud by the registering officer, or other suitable Friend. After the meeting it is customary for all present when the declarations were made to sign the certificate.
Next: 16.07
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