83. A juridical-pastoral approach: The example of the Italian Bishops Conference
I propose a combination of the two approaches
I propose a combination of the two approaches
If a dispensation is to be considered and be accessible, the Holy See would grant an indult to the Bishops of Nigeria to grant the dispensation on a case-by-case basis.
The most convenient way is for the priest to be present at the payment of the bride price.
The canonical form is a merely ecclesiastical law and not a divine law. In other words, it was established by the ecclesiastical authority and not by Christ himself.
Customary marriages are not contracted for ideological or practical reasons or in rejection of Christian marriage.
Statutory marriage is incompatible with customary marriage in Nigeria.
We sometimes erroneously assume that couples exchange consent when the bride presents a horn of palm wine to the bridegroom amidst the dancing.
Marriages contracted under customary law are as valid as marriages contracted under canon law
As we create new parishes, we should ensure that they are licensed places of worship to celebrate statutory marriages. We should ensure we complete the preliminary acts, including the marriage registration with the registry.
Contracting marriage in various legal systems is necessary if one desires to benefit from each legal system.