Pastoral Support for Interchurch Families

    Does the fact that you and your partner come from different church traditions (or denominations) cause you concerns or difficulties? Perhaps one of your ministers or priests is unsure about how far their church allows the “other partner” to be involved in services such as marriage, baptism or communion? Or maybe you feel that church regulations are putting barriers in your way?  

    You are not alone!




    "You live in your marriage the hopes and the difficulties of the path to Christian Unity."
    Saint John Paul II 

    The Association of Interchurch Families was formed in 1968 to help couples such as you by providing mutual support and, above all, information about what the churches say about people in your situation. At its heart, the Association’s mission is simply to:


     “... provide a support network and information service to interchurch families (including partners and parents, growing children and young adults) as well as clergy, ministers, relatives, and all others concerned in the welfare of these families”.


    We deliver this mission in two ways ...


    • Events and gatherings are arranged for anyone in an interchurch relationship or concerned with the pastoral welfare of such couples so that they can share experiences and support each other. Events are held both face-to-face and also on zoom. View more here.



    • By providing as much information as possible. View more here  This is especially important because some people are unaware that although our churches remain divided, much has changed in recent years to help interchurch couples live their marriages and bring up their children with the support of both their churches. 





    This website is just one way in which we attempt to provide information, guidance and support. You will find a mix of articles discussing church teaching and rules. There are FAQs about what is possible at major milestones such as marriage and baptism. And we also have stories from members to help bring the experience of being an interchurch family alive. 


     


    EVENTS

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