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Except for some variation in basic customs, Christians of kerala
conduct the marriage ceremony in the same way as other Christians.
Like in other religious marriages in Kerala the parents select prospective
partners. After extensive background checks, including financial
and social standing, and several meetings later, between the parents
of bride and groom, they introduce the bride and groom to each other.
In Kerala once things are endorsed, they have to notify their individual
churches to acquire approval. Once the consent is granted, they
have to undergo a marriage preparation course conducted by the church.
After that, at a day of their convenience (except on Fridays), in
Kerala they have to present themselves before the church officer
for “manasammatham" (engagement), accompanied by friends
and relatives. A prayer will be held before the engagement ceremony
and afterwards the vicar gives the blessing. In Kerala rings can
be swapped after this. Two male persons from both the parties have
to stand witness for this ceremony. This will be recorded in the
church register. After this for the next 3 consecutive Sundays,
while the church is in congregation, this engagement will be announced.
This is to inform others and to give them a chance to file objection,
if they have any. Alternatively this information will be displayed
at the church notice board. If some objections are noticed, church
will conduct an inquiry regarding this and proper actions would
be taken. The parents of the bride and groom, after mutual consultations,
fix a date for the marriage. Normally the marriage is held at the
district of the bride.
On the day of the marriage in Kerala, both the bride and groom,
along with their relatives and friends, will reach the marriage
place before the appointed time. At the given time, both the groom
and bride will enter the church, escorted by relatives and friends,
and proceed towards the altar. Some of the customs of traditional
kerala wedding, "thalikettu" - the process of tying the
sacred thread around bride's neck, giving "mantrakodi"-
the wedding sari, is incorporated into the Christian marriage ceremony.
As soon as the vicar enters the altar, the process of marriage (divyabali)
begins. Reciting of those portions of bible which are relevant to
the marriage function will be done by the vicar as well as the congregation,
accompanied by music. When this function reaches its midpoint the
vicar asks the groom to tie the marriage knot, followed by the presentation
of dress.
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