I need our Banns of Marriage reading

Banns of marriage need to be read in the parish where each of you lives as well as the church in which you are to be married if that is somewhere else.

What exactly are Banns?

Banns are an announcement in church of your intention to marry. They chance for anyone to put forward a reason why your marriage may not lawfully take place. Banns are an ancient legal tradition and have been read out every week in churches across the United Kingdom for millions of couples over many centuries.

When do Banns need to be read?

You must have your Banns read out in church for three Sundays during the three months before the wedding. This is usually done over three consecutive Sundays but does not have to be.

Are Banns a legal requirement?

Yes. Banns are a legal requirement for marriage in the Church of England. If one or both of you is a national of a country which is outside the European Economic Area, you will require a Superintendent Registrar’s Certificate to marry, rather than have banns read.

Is there a cost involved?

There is a small nationally agreed fee for having Banns read. At present, this is £43.00

Can I invite my family friends to hear our Banns read?

Yes, you can and many couples do! Your Banns readings are special public occasions when people in church hear of your intention to marry. It’s an exciting and happy time, so you’re welcome to invite your family and friends to hear your Banns read, if you’d like too. After your forthcoming marriage is announced, the congregation may be invited to pray for you both. It can be quite special and moving to hear this, so do go along and invite your family and friends if you can.

What happens next?

Once the Banns have been read we will give you a certificate which you can take back to the Vicar of the church where you are getting married to prove they have been read.

What do I need to do now?

Just visit our ‘Contact Us‘ page and someone will get in touch with you and arrange to meet you both. You can then fill in the banns form together and arrange the dates for your banns to be read.  If you would like to come along to hear them being read, we will do our best to ensure the dates are convenient for you.

What to learn more about having a church wedding?

If you would like to learn more about having a church wedding please visit Your Church Wedding which includes lots of helpful information to help plan the big day.