Weddings and Wedlock
Author: Moheb Thomas
Publisher:
Published: 2021-08-28
Total Pages:
ISBN-13: 9781737580300
DOWNLOAD EBOOKThis work defines the framework to defining the characteristics of a wedding celebration fit for the presence of our Lord, God, and Savior Jesus Christ. The method used to reach this aim is three-fold. Part one of the book is a systematic patristic theology of joy and how the early Christians around the time of Christ understood happiness. A critical exercise to identify what wedding customs extend genuine Godly joy to those involved. Part two delves into how the early church has defined marriage (wedlock). As part of the effort towards an understanding of matrimony, the Coptic (or Alexandrian) church rites, both contemporary and historical are closely considered, particularly in light of the Eucharist. Ancient Coptic rites on the Crowning Service are translated into English for the first time as part of this effort. The historic relationship between the Eucharist and the Crowning Ceremony in various traditions is also closely considered. Upon successfully defining how the church understands marriage, then a fruitful discussion about the appropriate means of celebrating it can be undertaken in part three. In part three, the Wedding of Cana is detailed from a historic perspective. Of particular interest is the setting, environment, and customs that our Lord was directly exposed to and willingly interfaced with. Then we revisit the church fathers to see what insights they offer for each of the customs identified in the wedding of Cana. This ultimately allows us to define the practices and customs of contemporary wedding celebrations which are befitting our Lord's presence.
