Emma's answers to Marrying outside my parish

Question

I am desperate to get married at a church five minutes down the road from my parents' home. As the church is currently without a permanent vicar, I rang the gentleman who is handling all queries in the meantime. He told me I would not be able to get married there, as my parents live outside the parish. I am so disappointed. I attended Sunday school at this church and, although I am not a regular churchgoer, I try to go every Christmas & Easter. I want to get married in a church as I believe in God, and want my wedding to be recognised by God, and this church means more to me than any other. Although my parents live about 3 miles outside the parish, they are still regulars in the village. Is there any way around this?

Answer

The Church of England's rules on this have recently been relaxed and it may still be possible for you to marry in this church, especially if you have a childhood connection with it as you say.

Otherwise, it is possible to apply for a special license but to do this you have to;
1. Have the support of the vicar
2. One of both of you has to be christened or baptized

This should not be necessary since the recent change of rules. I would go back to the gentleman who is taking queries and ask when a new vicar will be appointed. Then make an appointment to see the new vicar and get your wedding booked in!

Emma x