This order can, at the request of a man and woman married to each other, be used to consecrate a marriage that has been legalized with a civil ceremony or to bless a marriage into which they have entered in a religious rite different from the one used by the Lutheran Church.
This ceremony is held in a church or elsewhere as agreed upon by the pastor and the couple.
In July, 2011 the National Church voted to grant permission for pastors to bless same sex marriages, however the practice in the church is subject to approval by the lay leadership, in consultation with the congregation. Until such time as the Agricola congregation considers this decision, individuals who desire a blessing under this new policy are encouraged to speak to Pastor Tuula.