When Two Become One: Pastoral Challenges of Christian Mixed Marriage Couples

Christians in the United States are marrying across denominational lines with increasing frequency. When these “mixed” couples present themselves at their churches for weddings, they are faced with many questions. Are they free to marry in this parish or congregation? What promises or obligations must be in place before they exchange vows? Will they and their children be welcomed and integrated into their respective churches? This session explores these and other pastoral questions from the Greek Orthodox, Catholic, and Lutheran (E.L.C.A.) Christian perspective, highlighting the role conscience plays, as Christian mixed marriage couples and those who minister to them navigate the obstacles that Christian disunity presents. It’ll also shine a light on the urgent need to seek Christian unity while giving those in other religious traditions a look inside the relational impact of a lack of communion among Christians.