5 - MARRIAGE PROCEDURE
Couples contemplating marriage are earnestly advised to seek divine guidance in making their decision, to give serious consideration to the importance of harmony and sympathy in religious convictions, and to seek early the approval of parents and guardians in order that family unity may be preserved and hasty and improper marriages avoided.
Couples who wish to marry after the manner of Friends shall address a written proposal to the monthly meeting of either. The letter, signed by them both, and substantially as follows, should be submitted well in advance of the contemplated date.
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To the _______ Monthly Meeting:
We, the undersigned, propose taking each other in marriage, and we hereby request the approval of the meeting. (Signatures of both) |
The proposal may be accompanied by the written consent of the parents or guardians of either person. If either person is under the age of 18, the proposal must be accompanied by written consent of parents or guardians of such person or by a statement explaining why it cannot be obtained.
The clerk should immediately refer the proposal to the overseers or the meeting on ministry and counsel.
The overseers or the meeting on ministry and counsel shall appoint four members of the monthly meeting, at least one of whom is a member of ministry and counsel or is an overseer, to