This is a Message Board Post that is gatewayed to this mailing list. Author: vlbcfb Surnames: Classification: queries Message Board URL: http://boards.rootsweb.com/localities.northam.usa.states.newyork.counties.kings/16644.7.1/mb.ashx Message Board Post: Re dispensations--There are or were many reasons why a couple would need a dispensation. The vast majority--80% of those in 'Bishop Loughlin's Dispensations'--were only for the minor matter of dispensing with reading of the banns. Banns, or announcement of a forthcoming wedding, were read in Catholic and other Christian churches for three weeks before a wedding. That was so someone could stand up and show a valid reason why the couple should not be wed. So if a man was going into the military and leaving soon, or a bride was 'in the family way', or the couple was moving to California, or many other reasons, the church would dispense with reading the banns so they could get married right away and not wait three weeks. Joseph Silinonte did a wonderful service for many by compiling his book which does *not* contain the reason for the dispensation to protect people's privacy. Alas, he died too soon and his second volume has never been published. Important Note: The author of this message may not be subscribed to this list. If you would like to reply to them, please click on the Message Board URL link above and respond on the board.