In the Catholic Church, marriage regulations vary depending on the degree of relation between the couple. If you’re considering marrying a cousin, you may be wondering about the rules and whether you need special permission.
Can First Cousins Get Married in the Catholic Church?
First cousins can marry in the Catholic Church, but they need special permission. This permission is often granted after a discussion with the priest or bishop. The Church’s guidelines view marriage between first cousins as having a closer family bond, and the Church asks for this permission to ensure that the marriage is in line with its teachings.
What About Second Cousins and Beyond?
For second cousins or relatives further out (third cousins, etc.), there is no need for special permission. This is because the Church considers them to be beyond the fourth degree of relationship, which means they are not close enough in family ties to require any additional consent.
It’s still a good idea to inform the priest that you are second cousins before the wedding service begins. Doing this helps ensure the priest is not confused or concerned when the term “cousins” is mentioned by others. This small clarification can make the process smoother.
How Can You Tell If You Are First or Second Cousins?
If you are unsure whether you are first or second cousins, you can refer to resources that explain the difference. There are many charts and diagrams available that make it easy to understand these family relationships. Identifying your exact cousin status helps clear up any confusion regarding marriage permission in the Church.
The Catholic Church allows first cousins to marry with permission, while second cousins and those further out do not need special approval. If you’re unsure about your relationship with your partner, consulting with a priest and confirming your cousin status can help make your wedding process easier and more comfortable.
