COUPLES who are getting married must now be asked if they want to be called “husband and wife” under woke church rules.

       The guidance for Methodist ministers is intended to avoid upsetting gender-neutral congregation members.

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       An inclusive language guide for Methodist ministers says terminology like 'husband' and 'wife' can 'make assumptions about a family or personal life' Credit: Getty

       It is part of an inclusive language guide, which says: “Terminology such as ‘husband’ and ‘wife’ may sound inoffensive but it makes assumptions about a family or personal life that is not the reality for many people.”

       The 11-page pamphlet also warns against using phrases such as “brothers and sisters”, “guys” and “fellows”.

       And it suggests that asking a congregation to stand “if they are able” can create a “normalised expectation that people should stand”.

       The guide adds: “There is infinite variety in the way that God’s creation is expressed in human life.

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       “This is worth bearing in mind as we speak and write.”

       But it was mocked by Tory MP Nigel Mills, who said: “All these phrases are perfectly normal and I can’t see how anyone would be offended by their use.”

       The church said: “Our guide helps the church hold conversations without inadvertently causing upset.”