Which of the following is a valid circumstance in which marriage may be solemnized?

Marriage can be solemnized by a member of the clergy as they have the authority granted by religious institutions to conduct marriage ceremonies. This authority often comes from religious doctrines or organizational regulations which recognize the officiant as an individual empowered to unite couples through the sacred act of marriage.

Members of the clergy typically have specific training or recognition within their faith community, allowing them to perform marriages that may also include the element of religious significance, such as blessings and rituals that reflect the beliefs of the couple. This formal recognition is an essential factor contributing to the validity of the marriage, as some jurisdictions may require that marriages performed by clergy comply with local laws regarding marriage licensing and officiation.

In contrast, while family members or friends may play significant roles in a couple's life, their ability to solemnize a marriage legally varies by jurisdiction and is generally limited unless they possess recognized authority (such as having been ordained). Government employees, depending on their position and the jurisdiction, may also have the authority to solemnize marriages, but they must follow specific legal requirements. Therefore, while members of clergy hold an established and widely accepted position to solemnize marriages, others must align with legal standards that can restrict their capacity to do so.