 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
NIMMA |
|
Explaining mixed marriage in Ireland |
|
"Mixed marriage" strictly means a marriage contracted between a Christian and a non-Christian, but it has come to mean, particularly in Ireland, a marriage contracted between a Roman Catholic and another Christian from the Protestant denomination. Strictly this should be called an Interchurch marriage, for it is a marriage between two Christians who belong to different denominations. We should not forget that this term would include Church of Ireland-Presbyterian marriages and other inter-Protestant marriages. While it is more correct to use the term "Interchurch marriage" for those marriages where both partners are deeply committed to their own churches the term "mixed marriage" is readily understood in Ireland. However, it must be remembered that the original meaning of the term - a marriage between a Christian and a non-Christian - still applies, and these marriages still occur in Ireland today. Examples of Jewish-Christian and Muslim-Christian marriages are known and can pose different challenges. While we do not have much experience of this problem, NIMMA would be glad to help, if possible. You can find out more information about inter-faith marriages at the Interfaith marriage network or though the recent publication on "Celebrating the Succcess, Evaluating the Impact". |
|
Mixed Marriages within Northern Ireland today |
||||||||
|
In Ireland today, and particularly in Northern Ireland, mixed marriage is not just a marriage between two people who belong to different churches, but a marriage between people from different communities between whom tensions have existed for several hundred years. The relationship between a Roman Catholic (perceived nationalist) and a Protestant (perceived Unionist) is not greeted with enthusiasm in many family groups and can be seen as a shameful act. Understandably many couples prefer to remain anonymous and try and live in "mixed housing" areas and often choose integrated schools for children. Indeed for a couple to acknowledge they are "mixed" can almost be the equivalent of "coming out" and it is unwise for mixed couples to live in a number of local communities where there can be intimidation.
|