Announcing a marriage contract in a church

Q 1: Is it permissible for a Muslim man to have his marriage to a woman from the People of the Book (Jews and Christians) announced in a church by a priest, after marrying her according to the way prescribed by Allah and His Messenger in an English Registry Office?

A: It is not permissible for a Muslim man to have a priest announce his marriage to a Muslimah (Muslim woman) or a woman from the People of the Book in a church, even if it is after he has married her in the way prescribed by Allah and His Messenger. (Part No. 18; Page No. 119) This is because it entails imitation of the Christians in their marriage rituals of their churches. It also shows veneration for the Christian scholars and devotees. The Prophet (peace be upon him) said, “Anyone who imitates a people is from them.” (Related by Imam Ahmad through a good Sanad [chain of narrators]) May Allah grant us success. May peace and blessings of Allah be upon our Prophet Muhammad, his family, and Companions.