Christian · Pre-wedding

Engagement / Roce

The betrothal, and (in Goan/Mangalorean Catholic families) the Roce anointing the night before.

Also known as: engagement, roce, ros, betrothal

What it means

The engagement formalises the couple's intent to marry, often with a blessing and ring exchange. In Goan and Mangalorean Catholic tradition, the Roce ceremony anoints the bride and groom with coconut milk the day before the wedding — a symbol of purification and the last ritual of their single life.

What happens

  1. 1At the engagement, rings are exchanged and the families and priest bless the couple.
  2. 2At the Roce, family members apply coconut milk to the bride and groom amid singing.
This explanation is under review by a religious authority — a companion to, not a replacement for, your priest or pastor.

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