WEDDINGS

Our faith teaches us that marriage is a sacramental rite in which two persons “enter into a life-long union, make their vows before God and the Church, and receive the grace and blessing of God to help them fulfill their vows” (BCP, p. 861). The union is understood to be intended by God for their mutual joy; for the help and comfort given one another in prosperity and adversity; and, when it is God’s will, for the procreation of children and their nurture in the knowledge and love of the Lord (BCP, p. 423). At the Declaration of Consent, both persons promise to love, comfort, honor, and keep their spouse, in sickness and in health, and, forsaking all others, to be faithful to their spouse as long as they both live (BCP, p. 424). The congregation witnesses the couple’s promises, and the members of the congregation promise to do all in their power to uphold the couple in their marriage.

 

WHO CAN BE MARRIED AT ST. MATTHEW'S?

Marriage in the Episcopal Church is open to all couples, including same-gender couples. If you are not a member of St. Matthew's, please contact the church office for more information and to see if St. Matthew’s is a good fit for you. 

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Weddings can be held throughout the year, with the exception of Lent, the season before Easter. Weddings will need to be planned around parish events and the availability of the clergy. At least six months notice is needed in order to take care of the logistics, details, and the pre-marital counseling that is necessary to be married in the Episcopal Church.

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For more information contact the Interim Rector, the Rev. John Branson at the church office (203) 762-7400.