A drop-in wedding in the Church of Norway is a ceremony comprising all the elements of a traditional wedding. Photo: Unsplash, Matt Nelson
Churches across the country open their doors on Valentine’s Day
(LWI) - In recent years, drop-in weddings have become increasingly popular in Norway. On Valentine’s Day, 14 February, 64 congregations of the Church of Norway open their doors for couples to exchange wedding vows in a simple yet touching ceremony.
A drop-in wedding in the Church of Norway is a ceremony comprising all the elements of a traditional wedding. In a beautiful church, the couple exchange their vows. “The congregations make it possible for people to celebrate love in a personal and ceremonial way,” says Prof. Harald Hegstad, chairperson of the Church of Norway’s Church Council. The ceremony comprises beautiful music, text readings from the Bible, a short speech from the pastor, marriage vows, prayer, and blessing.
Encouraging feedback from couples
Nina and Per dreamed of a simple wedding without elaborate planning. “We have wanted to get married for a long time,” said Nina. “But thinking of all the preparations and effort gave me a lump in the stomach.” A drop-in wedding at their local church was an intimate, simple and personal ceremony with loved ones.
Marte and Morten did not like the idea of a traditional wedding with a bridal march and guests turning around when the bride entered. But in the end, their wedding came about within days. “We talked about getting married on Wednesday, he proposed on Thursday, and on Saturday, we stood at the altar,” said Marte, laughing.
Drop-in weddings have a very low threshold and are a good alternative for those who don't like too much attention and high expectations.
Morten, who got married in a drop-in wedding ceremony
The couple particularly appreciated that the congregation catered to them as a family with three children. At the church, drawing materials were provided for the children, and their son could stand next to the pastor and help hold the papers. “There was a calmness about it and very little stress,” Morten recalled. “We appreciated that. Drop-in weddings have a very low threshold and are a good alternative for those who don't like too much attention and high expectations.”
Couples who have had a civil wedding without a church ceremony or others who would like to renew their wedding vows are also welcome. Couples have several reasons for renewing their vows: Some want a fresh start, others want to give thanks for what they have together. Some find a special occasion suitable to celebrate, for example, marking a silver or gold wedding anniversary.
“We had a three-day wedding the first time we got married,” said Erica and Tomas. They opted for a drop-in ceremony to renew their vows on their wedding anniversary. “It was especially close and more intimate that way. At the same time, it was nice to make it a part of everyday life,” said Tomas.
For its members, the Church of Norway performs wedding ceremonies free of charge. That also applies to drop-in weddings. The only prerequisites are government-issued certificates of no impediment and clearance from the tax administration.
Because drop-in weddings on special dates like Valentine’s Day are so popular, some congregations request advance registration due to limited slots.
Source: Church of Norway
