The ecclesiastical discipline of the celebration of marriage according to the books of the Roman Rite of 1962 after the Second Vatican Council according to the motu proprio Summorum Pontificum and Traditionis custodes

Abstract

Through Pope Benedict XVI’s motu proprio Summorum Pontificum of July 7, 2007, the universal law for use of the 1962 liturgical books entered into force, but under certain conditions. Bishops received the unrestricted right to use the Pontificale Ro- manum of 1961/62 in the celebration of marriage. Nevertheless, the use of the Rituale Romanum of 1952 by priests or deacons when assisting at marriages required the per- mission of the parson or rector of the church hosting the ceremony. In addition, mem- bers of the clergy whose communities received the special permission necessary from the Apostolic See or the local Ordinary could also participate as qualified witnesses in a marriage ceremony celebrated according to the earlier rites. However, since July 16, 2021, after the issuance of the motu proprio Traditionis custodes, celebrating a marriage according to the books of 1962 is only possible in personal parishes with the permission of the diocesan bishop. The local Ordinary can also authorise priests of communities that have the special right to celebrate the earlier rites to celebrate such marriages. During the celebration of marriage according to the books of 1962, the current Code’s discipline should be maintained, providing it does not violate the shape of the rites contained in these books.