WEDDING STYLE: WHITE OR NATIVE?

Wedding style is a choice not a compulsion.

The focus must be on truly understanding what marriage is (a sacred promise, oath or covenant and a lifelong commitment of love and companionship) and on the intimate and immense responsibilities for each other that both parties are taking on.

Marriage is essentially abused when the focus deviates to temporal externalities only.

This beautiful institution is undermined by shallow societal stereotypes such as giving greater emphasis on ceremonial celebrations without a proper understanding of the basics of and basis for getting married.

The purpose of a marriage ceremony is to mark the beginning of a lifetime of marriage in the presence of appropriate witnesses, with the approval of an authorised officiant (clergy or registrar of marriage), with the blessing of parents and family and to honor the mutual consent of the uniting couple.

A recognised marriage should typically be statutory and customary in its initiation.

However, depending on the values and beliefs of the marrying spouses, the foundation and operation must be biblical, if they are professed and practicing Christians.

To be honest, "white wedding" has its origin in cultural models of foreign societies but has been introduced to native or indigenous societies (such as in Africa) through primarily social acculturation and secondarily the embedding of religion and eviction of paganism, a most welcome development to the glory of God and blessing of humanity.

It thus gradually became necessary to involve the Church in marriage procedures, especially pre-marital counselling. And that's the appropriate role a spiritual community should play: oversight, supervisory, advisory, counselling, etc (suchlike) before and after the wedding ceremony and as a spiritual support system during the lifelong marriage union. And that's if the Church wants to be sincere and serve humanity as God intended not usurping power and privilege over people.

To be clear, a "church or white wedding" does NOT really make a person more married than another who doesn't subscribe to such. At best, it is an indication of their belief system, gotten either by indoctrination or conviction. Neither is it a bad idea, if couples choose to initiate their marriage that way.

But it does NOT make marriage more spiritual. Maybe more religious or superstitious, considering their level of faith and understanding.

It will be incomplete not to state that the abuse or perversion of religion has led to the abusive and invasive control of personal lives unduly rather than a healthy and godly supervision of spiritual growth into true Christian maturity. Another form of godliness that denies the power, life or essence thereof.

Let people read and research. Let people know the origin and history of practices and observances before engaging them. Let people not judge us based on such observances, rites and rituals that are not fundamental to our vital relationship with Jesus.

Let people understand the nature and meaning of marriage. Let people not be led blindly by blind guides in persons or practices.

Let people understand what they are doing. Let people not be controlled but make their honest choice.

Let people make informed decisions. Let people be duly regulated by the basic framework of biblical principles, moral codes, good ethics, healthy culture, valid customs, relevant laws or statutes.

Let people think. Let people fear God, act wisely and shun evil. Let people love God and love people as Christ commands. Let truth and reason prevail.

Indeed, understanding and being true to what is right are crucial. Blessings!

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Now as he thus made his defense, Festus said with a loud voice, “Paul, you are beside yourself! Much learning is driving you mad!” But he said, “I am not mad, most noble Festus, but speak the words of truth and reason. (Acts 26:24-25)

Therefore do not let anyone judge you by what you eat or drink, or with regard to a religious festival, a New Moon celebration or a Sabbath day. (Colossians 2:16)

For this cause shall a man leave his father and mother, and shall be joined unto his wife, and they two shall be one flesh. This is a great mystery: but I speak concerning Christ and the church. Nevertheless let every one of you in particular so love his wife even as himself; and the wife see that she reverence her husband. (Ephesians 5:31-33)

Selah.