Belonging, Learning, Connecting in Grace

Wedding Details

 

Where To Begin?

First, together as a couple, read the information on this page thoroughly. Consider the expectations you have for your wedding and compare them with the information provided here. If you feel comfortable with our requirements and understanding of a wedding service, your next step will be to contact the church office via email or phone.

The first question we will ask you is the proposed date since all weddings are subject to the availability of the officiating Minister. If the Minister and the church are available, a deposit will confirm the date and time of the wedding.

The Wedding Service As Worship

The Christian Church is involved in weddings not only to fulfil a legal function, but because we want to offer the opportunity for your commitment of self-giving love to take place within the context of a service of worship. A wedding in a church is an expression of faith and deepens our appreciation of God’s love and care for us as revealed through Jesus Christ. A Christian marriage service therefore includes at least one reading from Christian scriptures.  If one within the couple practices another faith we are open to including expressions of other world religions and the inclusion of other faith leaders within the service.  If a Christian marriage service doesn’t interest you, we encourage you to seek the services of a justice of the peace.

At least two meetings with the Minister will be necessary to properly prepare for the service. The Minister will offer you a selection of wedding worship outlines that, in consultation with the Minister, you will be able to personalize to best express your faith and commitment to one another.

The date and time for a rehearsal with all the wedding party (including attending parents) will be arranged with the Minister well in advance.

Music

The music selected must be suitable for Christian worship. Generally speaking, this means that the music in its entirety expresses faith in God and the implications of that faith in our human relationships. We have a Music Director who is available, and it is expected that our staff musician will be given the first opportunity to provide music. If you wish to use another musician, permission must be sought from our Music Director, especially if they plan to utilize our instruments.  You should discuss possible musical selections with our Music Director well in advance of the service and before you make any arrangements with guest musicians or soloists.

Note that we do not allow recorded music during any part of the wedding service.

Fees

The fee includes the services of the Minister, Music Director and caretaker, and use of the Sanctuary. As mentioned, you will make a deposit as soon as the date is confirmed with the Minister. Please request the current amount of the fees and deposit required from the Office Administrator. The balance, along with your marriage license, is due at least two weeks before the wedding.

If you are contemplating an off-site wedding, the Minister will determine the fee on an individual basis.