US marriage certificate vs CofE marriage service
I'm CofE and my partner and I have been living in the US for the past decade. We recently got engaged after 9 years together, and are looking forward to finally being married. We got a marriage certificate in the US a few years ago for bureaucratic reasons. No rings, no vows, no prayers, and no family. We never got to make a commitment to one another or make any promises. Gemini says you're not allowed a CofE marriage service if you already have a marriage certificate. Is it true that a vicar is not allowed to marry us with the words "what God hath joined together let no man put asunder"? I really don't see the point of a blessing if the church believes the piece of paper replaces the divine covenant.
I'm hoping someone here can help shed light on what is and isn't possible for us. I'm currently feeling devastated that we will never be truly married.