Statement of Purpose:
God has ordained that a man and a woman may enter together in the estate of
marriage, pledging their love and promising fidelity each to the other as long as both
shall live. (Ephesians 5:31-33).
The wedding is a service of joy, and it is the desire of the church that such a service
bring joy to the people involved, and honor to God. Thus, the wedding service is a
worship service, to the glory of Almighty God-Father, Son and Holy Spirit.
Minister:
It is expected that the minister(s) of the church be the officiating minister(s) at
the wedding. Since they are acting as God's representatives before the body of
believers, it is their right to:
Ministers other than our own:
If a couple desires to involve a minister other than the minister from this church,
it is permissible after a contact is made by the visiting minister and a statement is
received from that minister; verifying membership, or connection of the couple with the
visiting minister's church. A visiting minister's spiritual convictions shall be
biblically consistent with our own. It is requested that the name of such a minister
should be submitted to the Board of Deacons for approval, prior to arrangements.
Organist other than our own:
If an organist, other than our own is requested, the name of such a person should
be submitted to the church office for approval.
Music:
The music that accompanies the ceremony should direct attention to God, who
sanctifies marriage, and special care should be taken to assure that it is suitable and
reverent. Choice of music should be discussed with both pastor and organist (if
church organist is used) and submitted for approval at least 30 days prior to the wedding.
Decorations:
It is advised that simple decorations are best as they do not detract from the
worship focus. If candles are to be used, they must be drip-less, and a protective
covering placed under them. Decorations are not to be fastened in a permanent
fashion to woodwork, pews, or church furnishings.
Rehearsal:
The officiating minster shall be in charge of the details of the rehearsal.
Promptness in arriving for the rehearsal is important. In planning the arrangements,
the chief question is whether such arrangements are proper in the worship service, and
meaningful to the bride and groom.
Right to Refuse:
The ministers and the Board of Deacons reserve the right to refuse the use of the
church facilities for a wedding if they judge the situation as an unfavorable testimony
being reflected upon our Lord and Saviour. (The reason for the above requirements
is
to insure a favorable Christian witness within the church for which God has made this body
of believers responsible).
Scheduling/Coordination of Dates and times:
The couple shall schedule through the church office their counseling
sessions with the Pastor as far ahead of the wedding as possible.
Reservations of dates and times related to wedding and rehersal are to be made
with the church office. For non-members, reservations cannot be made
earlier than 180 days in advance.
Use of the Church Building and Facilities:
There shall be no smoking anywhere in the church. The use of
alcohol and drugs is not permitted anywhere on church property. Those who
are renting any part of the church facilities are expected to cooperate in
assuring that guests comply.
Any broken or damaged items are to be replaced in like kind.
Due to the difficulty of removing rice from floors and sidewalks, it is
requested that birdseed be substituted for throwing. In no case shall
rice, seed, confetti, etc., be thrown inside the building.
Wedding services for Saturdays should begin no later than 7 o'clock PM to allow
for cleaning and preparing the church for worship the next day.
Costs for Rentals and Services:
Please contact the Church office (503) 623-2976 for
information.