Why the British Royal Family Doesn’t Need to Marry in a Civil Ceremony

In the United Kingdom, the requirements for marriage vary depending on the religious affiliation of the couple. While most individuals have the option to marry either in a civil ceremony or in a religious service, the British Royal Family has a unique situation that allows them to bypass certain formalities. This article explores why members of the Royal Family do not need to undergo a civil ceremony first, and how the process differs from that of the general public.

Requirements for Marriage in Britain

In Britain, no one is required to undergo a civil ceremony before marrying in a religious service. The Marriage Act 1949 stipulates that a marriage can take place in a Church of England or another church where the Minister is licensed as a Registrar. This means that if a couple wishes to marry in any religious service in these denominations, they do not need to go through a separate civil ceremony.

There are, however, exceptions to this rule. For instance, when the Prince of Wales was marrying for the second time, he was required to have a civil ceremony rather than a religious one. This was because the Church of England would not marry a divorced individual. The wedding was adorned with church symbolism but was essentially a civil blessing rather than a marriage ceremony.

Ordination and Ceremony

The process of ordination into the Church of England involves acquiring the status of a registrar for marriage. During my ordination as a deacon and then as a Priest, a Diocesan Chancellor, who is a Judge, was involved in the service. By taking part in this service, they conferred upon me the status of registrar to conduct marriages on holy ground. Similarly, other priests and ministers who are not ordained as registrars can also officiate at marriages, provided they are licensed.

At the time of my wedding in 1984, the marriage register was signed in a way that made it clear it was a religious ceremony, but it served a legal purpose as well. Three copies of the marriage certificate were made: one kept in the church, one sent to the central government registry office, and one given to the couple. When the church’s marriage register is full, it is usually sent to the County Record office for safe-keeping.

Church Weddings vs Civil Weddings

Church weddings are legally binding in the UK, making them a popular choice for families, especially those with religious affiliations. For individuals not affiliated with any church, civil weddings are the primary option. The officiating priest acts as the registrar in church weddings, and in some cases, other ministers of other religions can also register marriages.

Civil weddings are designed for non-religious couples and are performed by civil authorities, such as registrars or magistrate judges. These ceremonies are separate from religious weddings and do not require a religious affiliation. The Church of England's marriage ceremony includes a legal aspect, which aligns with the requirement for civil registration.

Conclusion

The British Royal Family’s unique status allows them to marry directly in a religious service without undergoing a separate civil ceremony first. This is due to the recognition of religious marriages as legally binding under English law. For the general public, the option to marry in a civil ceremony or a religious service exists, with the respective religious ministers serving as registrars when officiating at religious weddings.