Welcome to the Diocese of Niagara
 
 

 

Niagara Rite of Blessing of Civil Marriage

The Niagara Rite is intended for the voluntary use of priests who wish to offer a sacrament of blessing regardless of the gender of the civilly married persons who wish to receive the blessing of the church and wish to affirm their life commitment to each other before God in the community of the church.

As such it does not imply nor is it intended to suggest that those who do or do not make use of this rite are excluded from the economy of God’s salvation.  The rite is a means for the church to extend affirmation, support, and commitment to those who present themselves seeking a sign of God’s love in response to the love and commitment they express for each other and have already affirmed in a civil ceremony.

It is designed for the blessing of any couple who have been civilly married. It may also be used for the blessing or renewing of marriage vows for a couple celebrating a significant moment in their married life together.

Effective September 1, 2009, permission will be granted by Bishop Michael Bird for the use of the Niagara Rite as outlined in the protocols that are included.

Rite of Blessing

 



 

Cathedral Place
252 James Street North
Hamilton ON L8R 2L3
905.527.1316

Office Closed
Thursday, July 1st  - Canada Day
Monday, August 2nd - Civic Holiday
Monday, September 6th - Labour Day

Summer Office Hours
Monday, July 5th to Friday, September 3rd
Monday to Thursday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Office Closed on Fridays

Regular Office Hours will resume on Tuesday, September 7th
Monday to Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

 

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The Anglican Church of Canada