Weddings

 
 
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AN EXCITING TIME

Congratulations on your engagement, what an exciting time. But there is lots to be done before the wedding day, guests lists, invites, reception venues, catering, entertainment, and we can’t forget the actual wedding itself! The aim of this section is to help you plan the most important part of the wedding day where you will be making your vows to each other before God and the assembled congregation. 

FIRST STEPS

To get married in the church you are required by law to have a qualifying connection. Therefore you must meet at least one of the following criteria;

  •  have been baptised or confirmed in the parish,

  • Either you or a parent formally lived for at least six months in the parish,

  • Either you or a parent formerly habitually attended worship in the parish for at least six months

  • Have a parent or grandparent was married in the parish.

 
 
 

If you believe you have a qualifying connection then the next step is to contact us to arrange a meeting. During this meeting you will need to provide ID. this should ideally be a passport. If you are unable to bring a passport ask what alternative identification you should bring when you arrange the appointment. You will also be asked to complete some paperwork. Providing you meet the legal requirements then you will be able to book a date and plan for your banns to be read.

Banns are required by law and must be read out in the church where you intend to marry and in the parish church where you are currently living. Banns are sort of like planning permission. Your names and your intent to be married will be read out in the primary service of that church and people have the opportunity to raise any objections to the legality of the marriage (such as one being already married). This must take place within the three months prior to your wedding and you are expected to be present. 

Please do not book anything else until the date is confirmed with us. Some of the churches in the parish do receive a large number of bookings so your preferred date cannot be guaranteed. 

THE SERVICE

any service held in the church must follow the CIW liturgical format and be entirely of a Christian ethos. The core parts of the service will include the following;

  • Welcome & Introduction

  • Declarations 

  • Hymn*

  • Psalm, Bible reading, and the address

  • The Vows

  • Blessing of the wedding

  • Hymn*

  • Prayers for the couple

  • Blessing

  • Signing of the register

*Hymns are not a core part of the service but they will usually be included.

There is also the possibility of including additional content as well such as other readings or poems, however, this must be discussed with the Vicar.

It is also worth thinking about any music you want to be played when you enter or exit the church. Any prerecorded music will need to be agreed with the vicar.

 

BIBLE READINGS

There will always be a Bible reading during a church wedding. This is often read by one of the guests at the wedding, alternatively, the vicar will be happy to read it. If you don't want to choose a passage then the vicar can decide for you. Below are some suggestions;

  • 1 Corinthians 13

  • Genesis 1:26-28

  • Song of Solomon 2:10-13 & 8:6-7

  • Ephesians 5:21-33

  • Colossians Chapter 3:12 - 17

 

HYMNS

  • In Christ Alone

  • 10,000 Reasons (Bless the Lord)

  • Give me Joy in my Heart

  • Guide Me, O thou Great Redeemer

  • All Things Bright and Beautiful

  • Love Divine, All Loves Excelling

  • Praise my soul the King of Heaven

  • Immortal, Invisible

  • Lord of the Dance

  • Bind us Together

  • One More Step Along The World I Go