The process of being married in the eyes of the church but not the law is known as a religious or spiritual marriage. It involves having a wedding ceremony within the religious traditions and beliefs of a particular faith without seeking legal recognition from the government. However, it's important to note that the legal and religious aspects of marriage are often intertwined, so the specifics can vary based on the country and the religious institution involved.
In some countries, religious marriages may have legal implications, and couples may be required to register their religious marriage with the civil authorities to be recognized as legally married. On the other hand, some countries allow for purely religious or spiritual ceremonies without any legal registration, but these marriages might not be recognized for certain legal purposes, such as inheritance, tax benefits, or spousal rights.
As for the age requirement, it can vary depending on the country and religious institution. Many places have legal minimum age requirements for marriage, and religious institutions might have their own rules or guidelines. It's essential to research the laws and requirements in your specific location and consult with the religious authority you wish to marry under to understand their regulations.
Before proceeding with a religious marriage without legal recognition, it's essential to consider the potential legal consequences and how it may affect your rights and responsibilities as a couple. In some cases, couples may choose to have both a religious ceremony and a legal marriage to ensure they have all the legal protections and benefits provided by the state.