In the ancient traditions of the Eastern Churches, the promise of marriage (betrothal) prior to the wedding is based on the traditions and liturgical rites of each Church Sui Iuris (can. 782 §1, CCEO). Therefore, the particular law of each Church regulates this matter. Among St. Thomas Christians, this was known by names such as ‘Paranjokkal’, ‘Manasammatham’, ‘Othukalyanam’, and ‘Koodikkazhcha’. The parents, relatives, and friends of the bride and bridegroom are the primary participants in this ceremony. The law does not mandate that a marriage must be conducted simply because a promise of marriage was made. However, the other party must be compensated for any losses incurred as a result of the betrothal (can. 782 §2, CCEO).

The Code of Particular Law of the Syro-Malabar Church discusses betrothal in articles 154 to 162. The betrothal should be conducted before the marriage. It must be scheduled in a way that allows sufficient time for the publication of marriage banns. The betrothal can be conducted in the parish church in the presence of the Local Hierarch or the Parish Priest of either the bride or the bridegroom, or before a priest or deacon delegated by them, and in the presence of two witnesses. Usually, this promise is made at the bride’s parish church. However, according to the convenience of the bride and bridegroom and with the permission of the Parish Priest, it may be held at another church. Permission from the Local Hierarch is required to conduct it in places other than a church.

The betrothal should only be conducted after receiving the betrothal certificate (Form A) or a similar document. The rite of betrothal must be performed according to the liturgical texts approved by the Synod of the Bishops of the Syro-Malabar Church. Since the betrothal is only a sacramental, it is not celebrated along with the Holy Qurbana. If it is conducted on Sundays or other days of obligation, the Holy Qurbana may be celebrated either before or after this ceremony. The details of the betrothal must be recorded in the relevant register and signed by the bride, bridegroom, witnesses, and the celebrant. After the betrothal, the Parish Priest of the bridegroom or bride must be informed of the matter through the publication of banns notice (Form B). For mixed marriages, the Local Hierarch can decide whether to allow a betrothal after understanding the nature of the application. Betrothal may be permitted for mixed marriages solemnized with dispensation from the Catholic form of marriage.

If there are just reasons, the Local Hierarch of either party may grant an exemption from conducting the betrothal. It is sufficient to submit an application for this with the attestation of the respective Parish Priests of both parties. In urgent circumstances, the betrothal may also be conducted in writing. A written betrothal is when the bride and bridegroom, in the presence of two witnesses, express their consent for the proposed marriage in writing before their respective Parish Priests. The Parish Priests must then inform each other of the mutual consent. Only the Local Hierarch has the authority to permit such a written betrothal in urgent situations based on a written request. If a party does not wish to proceed with the marriage after the betrothal, that party may marry another person after obtaining permission from the Local Hierarch.

Rev. Dr. Joshy Kulathumkal