Catholic ship captain performing marriages?
I have a friend of mine who is a Catholic in good standing. He is also a captain on a cruise liner. He tells me that he is frequently called upon to perform weddings aboard ship. He is questioning whether or not he may perform these wedding ceremonies, especially if the parties are Catholic. Any thoughts? Thank you! Vladimir
QUESTION from Vladimir on November 11, 2003
ANSWER by Mr. Jacob Slavek on November 17, 2003
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Dear Vladimir, Don't forget that Holy Matrimony is a sacrament, and like all other sacraments can only be administered (normally) by an ordained minister. Most non-catholics in the United States do not see Marriage as catholics do.. to them marriage is just some touchy-feely ceremony in which a couple pledges to live together. It truly has no lasting or permanent meaning, even though the minister may say that it does. This is the kind of ceremony that a justice of the peace would do, or many protestant ministers, or a ship's captain, or any bozo for that matter. This is not Holy Matrimony, and is not considered marriage. In the Catholic Church, only an ordained minister may administer Holy Matrimony. Mr. Slavek |