Wedding
Marriage is a time, when a couple look at their lives, and decide that they want to make a solemn commitment to one another for for the rest of their lives.
It is a time when promises are made publicly, in front of friends and family, and within these promises we think about how the bride and groom will live their lives in love and relationship with one another, we ask the friends and family to support them in these promises, but...
Within a church wedding we go further than this, we also make the promises in the sight of God who knows the secrets of our hearts, and within that, we ask God to help us, in all of what life has to throw at us.
For many it is the weight of these promises and the traditional feel of the service which so many couples are looking for, friends and family may not always be with them... but God is.
Within the church, we don't aim to make money off our marriage services, but we do seek to cover our costs, which makes us much more competitive financially on what can already be, quite a financially challenging time.
Our costs start at around £600 all inclusive and it's up to you what else you want to add.
If you would like to get married, the next best thing is to contact our minister and ask for a look around, the most important thing after the proposal is to ask "how will it feel to get married in this place", and you will only know that from standing there and seeing it first hand.
A few common questions:
What do I need to do to get married in a church?
You need to have what is called a qualifying connection, there is a broad list, but the best thing to do is contact us, as even if you don't currently have one, we can help establish one.
Do I need to be baptised?
No, you can get married without being baptised (although the service will be Christian in orientation)
Can I have my own reading?
Yes, as long as it is in keeping with the churches position on love and marriage, then it is fine to have a friend or family member to read something on your behalf
Can I have my own music?
Yes we regularly have CD's played at the services
How much might it cost?
As mentioned above, there is a national charge set by the Church of England, so you should pay the same fee in any church. If you wish to have an organist, choir, or bell ringers, then we have to pay for them which we have to pass on. If you get married between Oct-Mar then we ask for a contribution towards the heating.
What are Banns?
Banns are essentially permission to marry, equivalent to a marriage license issued by the registry office. Banns must be called on 3 consecutive weeks, in the church where you wish to get married, and in the church(es) where you and your partner live. There is a small administrative cost for calling them, and a certificate will be required by the incumbent, before the marriage.