The Vatican says that in very exceptional circumstances and with special permission, lay Catholics can perform marriage rites.
VATICAN CITY – The Vatican said Monday that in very exceptional circumstances and with special permission, lay Catholics may be allowed to perform marriage rites.
In a document issued by the Holy See clergy office, the Vatican said that could only happen if there are no priests or deacons available, the nation’s bishops sign the exception and the Holy See also approves it.
The same document stresses that the lay faithful can preach in liturgy services, but can never give homilies at masses.
The Vatican document says that the local bishop, using his “prudent judgment”, can be trusted to place faithful in “exceptional circumstances” such duties including performing funeral rites, administering baptism, assisting in marriages, with the permission of the Holy See, and preach in a Church in case of need.
He noted that “where priests and deacons are lacking, the diocesan bishop can delegate lay people to assist in marriages” after the nation’s bishops’ conference signs the decision and the Vatican also gives its permission.
“However, under no circumstances can lay people give the homily during the celebration of the Eucharist,” said the Congregation for the Clergy.
The document aims to encourage parishes to be more dynamic in carrying out the evangelizing mission of the church and less focused on themselves, as Pope Francis wishes.
He also offered advice on the often delicate situation in which the faithful give money to the local church or the priest. In some places, even after a funeral or marriage, or when mass is said in memory of a deceased parishioner, worshipers offer money.
The Congregation for the Clergy recommended: “one could think of receiving offerings anonymously, so that everyone feels free to donate what they can, or what they think is fair, without feeling the obligation to respond to an expectation or a price . “
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