An elaborate set of guidelines
issued by a Syro-Malabar bishop for ceremonies including marriages and
funerals have caused controversy in the Church's base in the southern
Indian state of Kerala. It was based on decisions made at the Thamaraserry diocesan general assembly from January 9-11, said Fr Abraham Kavilpurayidam, the diocesan chancellor.
The guidelines said that Catholic men should marry before the age of 25 and women before 23.
They also said that extravagant ceremonies should be avoided and banned bridesmaids and flower girls in the ceremony.