BANNS OF MARRIAGE Meaning and
Definition
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Banns of marriage refer to a public announcement that is made in order to inform the community about an upcoming marriage. It is a traditional practice that serves to publicly declare the intention of two individuals to enter into the union of marriage. The banns are typically announced in the local parish church or other relevant places within the community, such as town halls or civic centers.
The purpose of announcing the banns is to give an opportunity to anyone who may have legal or moral objections to the intended marriage to come forward and voice their concerns. This practice ensures that there are no legal impediments or obstacles regarding the union, such as prior existing marriages or prohibitions due to blood relations.
The banns generally involve the announcement of the names of the intending couple, their respective places of residence, and the intended date of the marriage. The announcements are usually made on three consecutive Sundays or other designated days over a period of time, allowing sufficient time for objections to be raised.
While the practice of banns of marriage is more common in religious ceremonies, it can also be required by civil authorities in some jurisdictions. The purpose of such announcements is to uphold transparency, ensure legality, and maintain the sanctity of marriage within the community.
