Yes it was a church decree to overturn the reading of the bans wich were the Celtic notices of unions sanctioned and blessed by the Clan Leader and the clanspeople. This was considered Pagan (because it was) and they wanted all reference to the Goddess & Gods and the old ways wiped out.

But happily there are more Banners being posted and handfastings performed now than in the last 1000 years...Shessssss baaaaaaaack