What kind of rings are needed to get married in the Church

In recent years, with the growing influence of the Church on our lives, more and more newlyweds are choosing not only to get married in the registry office, but also to get married in the Church. If you are also planning to hold the sacred sacrament – this article is for you. We will consider the meaning of rings for wedding, and also tell you what rings are needed for the sacrament.

Why rings are needed for the wedding

The exchange of rings is one of the main components of the wedding process. Historically, rings made of different metal were used for weddings. The groom’s ring was gold, the bride’s was silver. Therein lies a special symbolism. Gold represents the divine glory of Christ, and silver – the purity and grace of the Orthodox Church. According to other interpretations, gold and silver represent male and female.

Before the wedding rings are given to the bishop and consecrated on the church throne. During the sacrament of marriage there is a threefold exchange of rings for the glory of the Holy Trinity. As a result, the gold ring remains with the bride and the silver ring with the groom.

Despite the fact that the exchange of rings is only one part of the sacrament, without it the wedding cannot take place at all.

What should be the rings for the wedding

• Metal. To date, the tradition of using rings of different metal is not mandatory. Both rings can be made of any precious metal.
• Inlays. Despite the fact that earlier the Church criticized rings with inserts quite sharply, considering it an excessive luxury, now in most churches are loyal to rings decorated with small diamonds.
• Engravings. A ring with the inscription “Save and Preserve” is one of the best options for a wedding ring. But clergy have nothing against names, important dates, any prayers or addresses to the Saints. For example, the rings are often engraved with “Pray God for us, Holy Guardian Angel”.
• Design. The design of wedding rings should not be too extravagant. It is better to give preference to the classics – round, smooth rings. Categorically forbidden rings with animalistic motifs.
• Other people’s rings. It is not recommended to take someone else’s rings for the wedding. Exception – rings of relatives who lived in peace and harmony until the golden wedding.

Is it possible to use wedding rings for the wedding?

Rings for the wedding and for the birth in the registry office should be different? Not necessarily. It is quite possible to use in the Church the same rings that are used at the civil wedding. But, of course, it is necessary to consult with the bishop beforehand: he must give his consent.

Rules of wearing wedding rings

Wedding rings are worn by analogy with wedding rings – on the ring finger of the right hand. If there are several rings, it is acceptable to wear them all on one finger – wedding, wedding and engagement. In this case, the wedding ring is usually worn on top (closer to the nail).

Is it possible to wear the wedding ring on another finger? Yes, the Church has nothing against it. If the ring is no longer suitable in size, it can be worn as a pendant around the neck.

It is not recommended to remove the ring altogether. It is believed that in this case the family is deprived of divine protection.