Holy Matrimony

Christian Marriage is a lifelong union between a man and a woman who ask God’s blessing and help to fulfill their vows.

Weddings at St. Mary’s are normally performed only for regularly attending parishioners and members of their immediate families.

All couples contemplating marriage are required to meet with the Rector for at least three sessions of pre-marital instruction on the Church’s teaching concerning marriage and family life. Additional sessions may be required at the Rector’s discretion. By canon law, the Rector must be satisfied that the couple intends and is able to undertake a Christian marriage before he consents to conduct the wedding.

Divorced persons seeking to remarry while their former spouse is still alive are required to undergo additional counseling with the Rector. The permission of the bishop must be obtained for remarriage in church.

All weddings take place in the church using the authorized liturgy in The Book of Common Prayer. Flash photography is strictly prohibited during the service.

Couples planning a wedding are urged not to schedule the reception until the Rector has agreed to conduct the service on the anticipated date.

Weddings may not be scheduled for Sundays, or during the seasons of Advent and Lent.

There is no charge for weddings at St. Mary’s. However, fees are payable to the organist, other musicians and participants, and for certain services. Many couples also wish to make some additional offering to the church in thanksgiving.