SPSA Church Giving (opens in a new tab)

Questions & Answers

Marriage

Faith Q&A › Metropolitan Youssef › Marriage and Family › Marriage

The question

We have gotten mixed answers on this question. First, are you allowed to get married during fasts other than the Great Fast? If not, why is every other sacrament allowed, including baptism, during fasts, but not marriage?

The answer

The Crowning Ceremony takes place during all joyful days and not during any fasts. Baptism, Confirmation, Confession, and partaking of the Eucharist are directly related to each one's salvation. The Unction of the Sick is for those who are ill and may repose. The Priesthood is for the administration of all the Holy Mysteries. Therefore, these are always available throughout the year. However, the Mystery of Holy Matrimony is a joyous event, not related to salvation, illness, nor administration of the Mysteries. It is the beginning of a new church—the family. Fasting is a time for personal self-reflection, repentance, and reconciliation with God. It is a special time devoted to deeper prayer and asceticism. A wedding includes merriment and festivities. The consummation of marriage is also likened to breaking a fast. Thus, the Church set aside all non-fasting days for the Crowning Ceremonies.

Answered by His Eminence Metropolitan Youssef (opens in a new tab)

Related questions

Questions answered by His Eminence Metropolitan Youssef (opens in a new tab) of the Coptic Orthodox Diocese of the Southern United States. Question 2531 on the Diocese’s Q&A site. Questions and answers © Coptic Orthodox Diocese of the Southern United States. All rights reserved.