Event that ‘highlights values’

The royal wedding will highlight the values underpinning Christian marriage, one of the most senior Roman Catholic clerics in England and Wales has said.

The Most Rev. Bernard Longley, Archbishop of Birmingham, said marriage – with its emphasis on faithfulness and commitment – continued to maintain its appeal.

He said the Catholic Church is “always grateful” for the example of young people who are ready to make this “joyful commitment” to one another in Christ.

“Marriage and family life go side by side in the Christian tradition,” he said.

“Despite the alternative lifestyles that are common, marriage continues to appeal with its strong emphasis on faithfulness and commitment as a good foundation for family life.

“The royal wedding of Prince William and Catherine Middleton offers an opportunity for people to learn again the values that underpin Christian marriage.”

Prince William and Kate will be married by the Archbishop of Canterbury Rowan Williams at Westminster Abbey with the Bishop of London, the Rt Rev. Richard Chartres, giving the address and the Dean of Westminster, the Very Rev. John Hall, conducting the service.

Roman Catholic clerics will be present, including the leader of Catholics in England and Wales the Most Rev. Vincent Nichols, the leader of Scottish Catholics, Cardinal Keith O’Brien, and the Primate of All Ireland, Cardinal Sean Brady.

The Catholic Church in England and Wales issued a prayer earlier this month asking for God’s blessing on the couple as they prepare for their wedding.