If I ruled the world ...

Any adult couple could enter into a civil union, which would be legally recognised by the state, employers etc., and which would have all the legal and financial benefits (and problems) we now associate with marriage.

Those who wished could then go on to also have the union blessed according to their religion. But that would make no difference as far as their legal and civil rights and obligations to each other. Call that marriage if you want.

As mod-ed says the word marriage is tied up with the religious ceremony in most people's minds. So I'd use the words "civil union" and "marriage" in recognition of that fact. So long as everyone's treated the same under the law, it doesn't really matter what you call it.

Bingley

Bingley