 |
 |
 |
Getting Married in ChurchCan I get married at St Bartholomew's?Yes, if one of you lives in our parish (go to http://www.achurchnearyou.com and type in your postcode!) Yes, if one or both of you normally worship here (or are willing to start). Yes if you can show you have a “qualifying connection” with this church. www.yourchurchwedding.org/youre-welcome/more-churches-to-choose-from.aspx That covers nearly everyone who asks - and it’s the law; you don’t have to be a churchgoer, or to have been baptised. But what if……?One of us is divorced? In line with C of E policy, a minister will be happy to talk things over with you, and come to a decision fairly quickly whether or not to agree to a wedding (or a service of blessing after a civil marriage). We’re marrying abroad? You could consider having a Service of Blessing for family and friends once you’re “back home” – please ask for more details The first step – make contactOf course, the date and time have to be agreed, so (before you firm up other plans) please get in touch with us:
(actual bookings need to be made in person at the Sunday service, as above; we may ask for a deposit, returnable at our discretion) Getting ready for the wedding: There are lots of ideas and useful links on the C of E website: http://www.yourchurchwedding.org/ You need to begin making plans in earnest about six months before the big day; please get in touch by then to save us having to contact you.
GETTING YOURSELVES READY A wedding is for life, not just for a day, and we believe that everyone should have the opportunity to think about what that life involves. We hold an initial meeting for couples twice a year (next: Saturday morning 1 December) when you can meet the Vicar and other “key players”. We then make arrangements to meet you as a couple and offer some preparation (and a final rehearsal – this will be conducted by whichever minister is taking your service); please ask for more details. GETTING READY LEGALLY Usually the only thing necessary is to have your “Banns” read out in church – we will agree the dates; if either of you lives in another Church of England parish, you must arrange for them to be called there (and pay a fee, and collect a certificate which we need to see). Occasionally there are other legal steps to take, such as obtaining a “Common Licence”; we will tell you if this applies, and tell you what to do. GETTING THE SERVICE READY We like your service to be the way you want it; some parts (like the vows, which most couples think are the most important bit) are laid down; for the rest, you don’t have to stick exactly to the traditional pattern, and the "extras" can be as elaborate or as simple as you like. You can involve other people, choose your music and a special Bible reading, and print your own service sheet (we normally use a modern-English service; if you prefer you may use the 16th-century words of the Book of Common Prayer). GETTING THE GUESTS READY Your guests might appreciate knowing:
GETTING THE FINANCES READY Weddings can work out very expensive, and you need to think how much you (and your families) really want to spend! It is national church policy to keep church fees at an affordable level, though they are usually one of the smallest elements of the total cost. If you are in a position to do so, you are welcome to make an additional donation, which can be Gift-Aided (we supply an envelope). The “typical” wedding at St Bartholomew’s is expected to cost £575 (in 2013). This is made up of:
|