RCC in Poland introduces ban on secular music during wedding ceremonies

Compositions by Ed Sheeran, Leonard Cohen, The Beatles, and others were banned during church weddins by the RCC in Poland. Photo: Envato/prostooleh, Scott Dudelson/Getty Images for Coachella.

On January 19, 2026, in Poland, the Roman Catholic Church announced a ban on performing secular music during church weddings. The corresponding recommendations were published by the diocesan commission on church music, reports TVP World.

According to the document, during church ceremonies, including wedding ceremonies, the performance of popular songs is not permitted, even if they have romantic or spiritual undertones. In particular, compositions by Ed Sheeran (Perfect), Leonard Cohen (Hallelujah), and The Beatles (All You Need Is Love) were banned.

The Włocławek Diocese explained that churches are places of prayer and worship, not venues for concerts. The choice of musical accompaniment, according to church authorities, should correspond to liturgical norms and be under the responsibility of priests and organists.

The commission paid special attention to the group Emmanuel, which performed a Polish version of the song Perfect. The RCC stated that "Christianizing" the text does not make a secular composition acceptable for worship, and banned the group from performing in churches in 2026. The musicians called this decision excessively harsh, however, the church emphasized that the restrictions are aimed at preserving the sacred character of the Liturgy.

Earlier, the UOJ wrote that Ukrainian women are increasingly marrying Poles.

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