REGARDING the article 'Marriage vows plea' (LET, July 9), I think Mrs Margaret Baxter is quite right in suggesting that the marriage service be brought into the 1990s.

There can't be many couples who don't live together beforehand and don't have young children.

It seems to be the trend to live together before - 'to make sure.'

I thought the inclusion of prayers for the children was a lovely idea, as it makes it a 'special' day for them too as they could be facing a new life with new brothers and sisters as well as a new parent.

It would acknowledge today's lifestyle. Whether right or wrong in the eyes of the Church, It's what is happening.

The service could become a family service, tailored to a particular couple - because not all couples are 'second timers.'

It would give the Church a more 'human' approach to life and perhaps more people would be encouraged to visit their local church instead of only at weddings, christenings and funerals.

FIONA MORETTA, Knowsley Road, Wilpshire, Blackburn.

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