Three Reasons Why A Relationship Should Be Registered

Every church should have a register in which recorded pertinent details of its members who are intending to marry. This serves as the official recognition of the relationship by the church, and should be done at least six months prior to the intended marriage. Why register?

        I.       

     To          Ascertain if some people are married already

Some couples may already have children from current or past relationship. In some cultures, it is not to know if the couples have performed the said rites or not. Any such ceremony, tradition or rite must be brought to light. Failure to disclose such information may lead to a termination of the relationship.
To ensure that all relationship are not hidden  

It is imperative that all relationships be open before God, the pastor and the church congregation. Carrying out the relationship openly also helps to promote a healthy and wholesome relationship.

    III             To get  to  know the couple better

          By registering the couple, you will learn about them in a more personal manner                                                               

1.       The couple’s full name(for completing the register)

2.       You can better assess their Christian commitment

3.       Know the church of your mother’s beloved, if not from your church

4.       Probe their church activity levels

5.       Confirm any past relationships

6.       Ascertain. If any, incidence of fornication both past and present. It will enable to know if they are virgins

7.       Confirm whether present relationship is smooth or stormy

8.       Know how soon they intend to marry. Unduly long relationships are not encouraged

Ten facts to Discover through the Official Recognition of a Relationship

1.       Name and age of both man and woman

2.       Date the relationship started

3.       How long they have known each other

4.       Sickle cell status of both man and woman

5.       H.I.V status of both man and woman

6.       Any other medical condition e.g. epilepsy, high fever etc.

7.       Educational background of both man and woman

8.       Working  experience of both the man and the woman

9.       Parental knowledge and consent

10.   Tentative wedding date