Weddings
Welcome
The members, clergy, vestry, and staff of St. Alban’s delight in supporting you joyfully and lovingly in this process. The following customary will assist you in making plans and preparations in accordance with the customs and traditions of the Episcopal Church as well as with the policies and guidelines of the Episcopal Church, the Episcopal Diocese of Southwest Florida, and St. Alban’s Church
The Episcopal Church and the Episcopal Diocese of Southwest Florida permit clergy to perform weddings for same-gender couples, and St. Alban’s is happy to do so. All couples interested in seeking the blessing of the Church must follow the same guidelines outlined in this customary.
This customary is designed to give you much of the information about celebrating a wedding at St. Alban’s. We also recognize that there are likely to be other questions not addressed on these pages. If you have questions or need additional guidance, please contact our Rector. The Email for the church office is [email protected]. Please contact the office of St. Alban’s at 727-360- 8406 to schedule an informational meeting with the Rector or the designated Wedding Coordinator for St. Alban's. The purpose of this meeting will be to review the guidelines for marriage and to check the availability of the church, clergy, and organist for the proposed date for the ceremony. No arrangements which involve the church, church facilities, or the clergy who will perform the ceremony are to be announced until the rector’s approval has been received. Please note, that if you wish to proceed, we ask that you complete the Wedding Application form at the end of this document.
The members, clergy, vestry, and staff of St. Alban’s delight in supporting you joyfully and lovingly in this process. The following customary will assist you in making plans and preparations in accordance with the customs and traditions of the Episcopal Church as well as with the policies and guidelines of the Episcopal Church, the Episcopal Diocese of Southwest Florida, and St. Alban’s Church
The Episcopal Church and the Episcopal Diocese of Southwest Florida permit clergy to perform weddings for same-gender couples, and St. Alban’s is happy to do so. All couples interested in seeking the blessing of the Church must follow the same guidelines outlined in this customary.
This customary is designed to give you much of the information about celebrating a wedding at St. Alban’s. We also recognize that there are likely to be other questions not addressed on these pages. If you have questions or need additional guidance, please contact our Rector. The Email for the church office is [email protected]. Please contact the office of St. Alban’s at 727-360- 8406 to schedule an informational meeting with the Rector or the designated Wedding Coordinator for St. Alban's. The purpose of this meeting will be to review the guidelines for marriage and to check the availability of the church, clergy, and organist for the proposed date for the ceremony. No arrangements which involve the church, church facilities, or the clergy who will perform the ceremony are to be announced until the rector’s approval has been received. Please note, that if you wish to proceed, we ask that you complete the Wedding Application form at the end of this document.
Introduction to Christian Marriage and Worship at St. Alban's
A wedding is one of life’s great moments, a time for good wishes, feasting, and joy. It is also an invitation for a couple to share life together in the spirit of Jesus Christ. It is based upon public and life-long covenant between two people—celebrated in the presence of God and before a priest and congregation. Because marriage is a commitment “not to be entered into unadvisedly or lightly,” we ask that you read through this booklet carefully and then talk to us about your upcoming marriage.
Christian Marriage is a solemn and public covenant between two people in the presence of God. The celebration of a marriage is not a private act, but a public service of the church in the contextof the community of faith. We welcome those who are interested in exploring the spiritual aspects of their marriage relationship, as this will guide and determine the role of the parish church and the priest in planning, scheduling, and celebrating a Christian marriage. The following guidelines have been established for wedding ceremonies celebrated at St. Alban's Episcopal Church. While elements of the ceremony may appear stringent, please remember that the Church and clergy are bound by Canons, or rules, of the Church. Holy Matrimony, while joyful and celebratory, is also a sacrament and is to be entered into reverently and deliberately. While some elements of the service or guidelines concerning pre-marital counseling are fixed, the church is also flexible concerning some parts of the service. The overriding concern is to make this a joyful celebration of your marriage in the context of Holy Matrimony. So, with that in mind, we hope the following helps answer some of the questions and concerns you might have for your memorable day ahead.
The Episcopal Church teaches that Holy Matrimony is a union “entered into within the community of faith.” It is strongly encouraged that, under normal circumstances, those who are tobe married at St. Alban's Church will nurture their relationship and future marriage through active participation in this worshiping community or in another community of faith.
A wedding is one of life’s great moments, a time for good wishes, feasting, and joy. It is also an invitation for a couple to share life together in the spirit of Jesus Christ. It is based upon public and life-long covenant between two people—celebrated in the presence of God and before a priest and congregation. Because marriage is a commitment “not to be entered into unadvisedly or lightly,” we ask that you read through this booklet carefully and then talk to us about your upcoming marriage.
Christian Marriage is a solemn and public covenant between two people in the presence of God. The celebration of a marriage is not a private act, but a public service of the church in the contextof the community of faith. We welcome those who are interested in exploring the spiritual aspects of their marriage relationship, as this will guide and determine the role of the parish church and the priest in planning, scheduling, and celebrating a Christian marriage. The following guidelines have been established for wedding ceremonies celebrated at St. Alban's Episcopal Church. While elements of the ceremony may appear stringent, please remember that the Church and clergy are bound by Canons, or rules, of the Church. Holy Matrimony, while joyful and celebratory, is also a sacrament and is to be entered into reverently and deliberately. While some elements of the service or guidelines concerning pre-marital counseling are fixed, the church is also flexible concerning some parts of the service. The overriding concern is to make this a joyful celebration of your marriage in the context of Holy Matrimony. So, with that in mind, we hope the following helps answer some of the questions and concerns you might have for your memorable day ahead.
The Episcopal Church teaches that Holy Matrimony is a union “entered into within the community of faith.” It is strongly encouraged that, under normal circumstances, those who are tobe married at St. Alban's Church will nurture their relationship and future marriage through active participation in this worshiping community or in another community of faith.
Who May be Married at St. Alban's
We are keenly aware that St. Alban’s “in the heart of St Pete Beach” draws many to it as does the beauty of St Pete Beach as a wonderful place for a destination wedding. The beauty and sanctity of the buildings and grounds make St. Alban’s an appealing place for the Celebration and Blessing of a Marriage. Primarily, we perform weddings for our parishioners and their adult children—people and families who have been faithful in their life and financial support of the life and ministry of St. Alban’s Church over an extended period of time. Hence, any fees for parishioners ascommunicants (meaning faithful in attendance at worship) and contributing members of record (meaning faithful financial supporters of the church) have fees that are substantially reduced. The fees for others seeking to be married at St. Alban’s are comprehensive of all uses of space and all services except coordinating, catering, photographic, floral, and any musicians other than the church organist.
We make St. Alban’s available to persons seeking to be married bearing in mind the following guidelines:
We are keenly aware that St. Alban’s “in the heart of St Pete Beach” draws many to it as does the beauty of St Pete Beach as a wonderful place for a destination wedding. The beauty and sanctity of the buildings and grounds make St. Alban’s an appealing place for the Celebration and Blessing of a Marriage. Primarily, we perform weddings for our parishioners and their adult children—people and families who have been faithful in their life and financial support of the life and ministry of St. Alban’s Church over an extended period of time. Hence, any fees for parishioners ascommunicants (meaning faithful in attendance at worship) and contributing members of record (meaning faithful financial supporters of the church) have fees that are substantially reduced. The fees for others seeking to be married at St. Alban’s are comprehensive of all uses of space and all services except coordinating, catering, photographic, floral, and any musicians other than the church organist.
We make St. Alban’s available to persons seeking to be married bearing in mind the following guidelines:
- In the Episcopal Church it is required that at least one of the parties entering into the marriage be a baptized Christian
- The marriage must conform to the laws of the state of Florida and the canons (rules and laws) of this church and the Episcopal Diocese of Southwest Florida.
- A minimum of 60 days’ notice, dated from the first meeting with the clergy, must be given. Reserving a date six months or more in advance is highly recommended in order to secure the date on the church calendar.
- Marriage ceremonies may be taken from the 1979 Book of Common Prayer or from other approved Anglican liturgies.
- If one or both parties have been previously married, divorce is not in itself a barrier to remarriage, but the Episcopal Church requires certain steps to be followed in order to be remarried in the Church. The first step is to have the officiating clergy at St. Alban’s obtain permission from the bishop of the diocese to solemnize the wedding. This is with a minimum of thirty days’ notice. This permission is the bishop’s exercise of oversight of the pastoral ministry of the clergy who will officiate. The officiating clergy at St. Alban’s will meet with you as a couple to discuss how it is that you have come to this relationship, that there is no legal impediment to being remarried, and that if there are children from a previous marriage there are provisions for their care and rearing.
- Marriage is both a legal and a spiritual union. The priest acts as an agent of the state and signs the marriage license. In the marriage ceremony, the priest pronounces God’s blessing upon the couple’s love and life together. It is the Church’s hope that Christian marriage begins and matures within the context of a Christian community; and, indeed, one reason it exists is for the benefit of the Christian community.
- No weddings on Saturdays are scheduled after 5:30 PM.
- Finally, it is ultimately for the Rector of St. Alban’s (in accordance with Canon Law) to decide who may or may not be married at St. Alban’s, and the Rector may decline any outside requests without giving a reason.
Premarital Counseling
It is a requirement of the Episcopal Church that couples obtain pre-marital counseling prior to their wedding. This requirement can be fulfilled in several forms. Some couples obtain this counseling from licensed mental health counselors and practitioners, their parish priest, or other ordained clergy. The Rector is willing to consider any of these as fulfilling the requirement for premarital counseling. A minimum of four sessions of counseling are required. Regardless of whether another professional does the required counseling with the couple or if it is done with the Rector of St Alban’s, the couple must meet with the Rector at least twice as detailed below.
If the required counseling is done with the Rector, it allows the clergy and the couple to become acquainted in advance of the wedding and makes it easier for the Rector to be a more competent resource to the couple as they plan together. In this way also a relationship can be developed so that on the wedding day there is a sense of the Rector as a pastor and advocate rather than merely as a stranger performing the ceremony. There is no additional charge for this counseling is done with the Rector.
Routinely, there are four counseling sessions with the Rector. The first is when the couple and Rector meet to complete an information form together. This can usually be done via Zoom or FaceTime. The fourth meeting will be on the day of the rehearsal where the Rector wants to be the first appointment of the couple’s day. At that meeting, the Rector will go over the entire service to ensure both the couple and the clergy are clear on who is doing what in the liturgy (escorts, procession, seating, where people will stand, practicing the recitation of vows, etc.). This counseling session draws together what has been spoken of before and frames it within the context of the ritualized words of the liturgy. This meeting also allows the Rector to go into the rehearsal later that day prepared to give clear directions to those who have been invited to participate in this happy and holy event.
The other two counseling sessions can be any mutually convenient time between the first and last sessions. Often, couples who are planning a destination wedding at St. Alban’s can meet with the Rector when in town to meet with other service providers such as photographers, florists, and formal wear suppliers. One of the two sessions is focused on the family and friends’ history of the individuals being married and its influence on each person coming together to create a new familyhistory. The other counseling session explores avenues of negotiating the “bumps in the road” which will come in a marriage in a variety of areas such as finances, work, and career, sexuality, children (if applicable), stress, burnout, life together now and in the future, counseling, ways in negotiating with your partner through difficult times, hurt and forgiveness, taking care of each other, and spirituality.
All the sessions are conversational in form and designed to lead the couple into a more informed awareness of the solemn and public covenant they will enter into at their wedding and as a foundational experience for the rest of their lives together as a married couple.
It is a requirement of the Episcopal Church that couples obtain pre-marital counseling prior to their wedding. This requirement can be fulfilled in several forms. Some couples obtain this counseling from licensed mental health counselors and practitioners, their parish priest, or other ordained clergy. The Rector is willing to consider any of these as fulfilling the requirement for premarital counseling. A minimum of four sessions of counseling are required. Regardless of whether another professional does the required counseling with the couple or if it is done with the Rector of St Alban’s, the couple must meet with the Rector at least twice as detailed below.
If the required counseling is done with the Rector, it allows the clergy and the couple to become acquainted in advance of the wedding and makes it easier for the Rector to be a more competent resource to the couple as they plan together. In this way also a relationship can be developed so that on the wedding day there is a sense of the Rector as a pastor and advocate rather than merely as a stranger performing the ceremony. There is no additional charge for this counseling is done with the Rector.
Routinely, there are four counseling sessions with the Rector. The first is when the couple and Rector meet to complete an information form together. This can usually be done via Zoom or FaceTime. The fourth meeting will be on the day of the rehearsal where the Rector wants to be the first appointment of the couple’s day. At that meeting, the Rector will go over the entire service to ensure both the couple and the clergy are clear on who is doing what in the liturgy (escorts, procession, seating, where people will stand, practicing the recitation of vows, etc.). This counseling session draws together what has been spoken of before and frames it within the context of the ritualized words of the liturgy. This meeting also allows the Rector to go into the rehearsal later that day prepared to give clear directions to those who have been invited to participate in this happy and holy event.
The other two counseling sessions can be any mutually convenient time between the first and last sessions. Often, couples who are planning a destination wedding at St. Alban’s can meet with the Rector when in town to meet with other service providers such as photographers, florists, and formal wear suppliers. One of the two sessions is focused on the family and friends’ history of the individuals being married and its influence on each person coming together to create a new familyhistory. The other counseling session explores avenues of negotiating the “bumps in the road” which will come in a marriage in a variety of areas such as finances, work, and career, sexuality, children (if applicable), stress, burnout, life together now and in the future, counseling, ways in negotiating with your partner through difficult times, hurt and forgiveness, taking care of each other, and spirituality.
All the sessions are conversational in form and designed to lead the couple into a more informed awareness of the solemn and public covenant they will enter into at their wedding and as a foundational experience for the rest of their lives together as a married couple.
The Clergy and Worship Planning
The Rector of St. Alban’s Church oversees all weddings at the church. All plans for the wedding ceremony must be made in consultation with the Rector and/or with the Wedding Coordinator who serves as the Rector’s representative. Other clergies, either of the Episcopal Church or of other denominations, who have a special relationship with either member of the couple, may be invited by the Rector to assist in the service. The Rector should be consulted before communicating with other clergies about the wedding.
There is no firm policy at St. Alban's Episcopal Church that prohibits its clergy from presiding at weddings in locations other than Saint Alban’s (e.g., a’s (e.g., an outdoor garden, the beach, or other pavilions, etc.). The Rector would be glad to speak with you about this. However, it should be noted that the most appropriate place for a religious wedding is either the church sanctuary or the chapel in the sanctuary.)
The Holy Eucharist (the sacrament of Holy Communion) is usually part of an Episcopal Wedding Service but is always optional. It can be a very meaningful way for Christians to mark the beginning of their married lives together. The word “Eucharist” means “thanksgiving.” By setting the wedding into the context of the Eucharist, there is a focus on giving thanks to God for the gift of love and for the relationship. Whether or not to have Eucharist at the wedding is a decision that should be made by the couple with the advice of the officiating priest. If Holy Communion is planned as a part of the ceremony, it will be available to all who are present and desire to receive the sacrament.
The Rector of St. Alban’s Church oversees all weddings at the church. All plans for the wedding ceremony must be made in consultation with the Rector and/or with the Wedding Coordinator who serves as the Rector’s representative. Other clergies, either of the Episcopal Church or of other denominations, who have a special relationship with either member of the couple, may be invited by the Rector to assist in the service. The Rector should be consulted before communicating with other clergies about the wedding.
There is no firm policy at St. Alban's Episcopal Church that prohibits its clergy from presiding at weddings in locations other than Saint Alban’s (e.g., a’s (e.g., an outdoor garden, the beach, or other pavilions, etc.). The Rector would be glad to speak with you about this. However, it should be noted that the most appropriate place for a religious wedding is either the church sanctuary or the chapel in the sanctuary.)
The Holy Eucharist (the sacrament of Holy Communion) is usually part of an Episcopal Wedding Service but is always optional. It can be a very meaningful way for Christians to mark the beginning of their married lives together. The word “Eucharist” means “thanksgiving.” By setting the wedding into the context of the Eucharist, there is a focus on giving thanks to God for the gift of love and for the relationship. Whether or not to have Eucharist at the wedding is a decision that should be made by the couple with the advice of the officiating priest. If Holy Communion is planned as a part of the ceremony, it will be available to all who are present and desire to receive the sacrament.
Scripture Readings for the Wedding
Readings for the service come from the Holy Bible only. The couple should work with the Rector to choose the actual selections for the wedding. While the list of recommended readings is from the Book of Common Prayer and other authorized sources in the Episcopal Church, there may be a passage from scripture that is particularly meaningful to the couple to be married and this may be selected in consultation with the rector. It is quite appropriate for members of the family, the wedding party, or guests to participate. Readers of lessons should prepare their readings from what they will be provided. You may have as little as one reading from scripture or as many as three. For a list of recommended Scripture readings, click here (The Celebration and Blessing of a Marriage (lectionarypage.net). If there is to be Communion, a passage from the Gospel is always read and is the last of the readings.
Readings for the service come from the Holy Bible only. The couple should work with the Rector to choose the actual selections for the wedding. While the list of recommended readings is from the Book of Common Prayer and other authorized sources in the Episcopal Church, there may be a passage from scripture that is particularly meaningful to the couple to be married and this may be selected in consultation with the rector. It is quite appropriate for members of the family, the wedding party, or guests to participate. Readers of lessons should prepare their readings from what they will be provided. You may have as little as one reading from scripture or as many as three. For a list of recommended Scripture readings, click here (The Celebration and Blessing of a Marriage (lectionarypage.net). If there is to be Communion, a passage from the Gospel is always read and is the last of the readings.
Music for the Wedding Ceremony
The parish organist should be contacted as soon as the wedding date is set, but at least 60 days before the wedding to ascertain availability and begin work on the music selection. If you plan to have music selections performed by vocalists and /or instrumentalists, please discuss it with the parish organist who must approve the use of the piano or organ to be played by another musician. Theorganist’s fee is $150 ($50 for consultation and $100.00 for rehearsal and wedding day). Any fees for other musicians are the responsibility of the couple.
If you wish to use an organist who is not the organist of St. Alban’s even though our organist is available to play at the wedding, the $150.00 fee described above is still due to the organist of St. Alban’s as well as any fee for such other organist. This is known as a “bench fee,” and it is a customary contractual arrangement with most church organists encouraged by the American Guild of Organists.
The canons of the Episcopal church (Title II, Canon 5) state, in part: “It shall be the duty of every member of the Clergy to see that music is used as an offering for the glory of God and as a help to the people in their worship... To this end, the Member of the Clergy shall have final authority in the administration of matters pertaining to music. In fulfilling this responsibility, the members of the Clergy shall seek assistance from persons skilled in music. Together, they shall see that music is appropriate to the context in which it is used.” Therefore, a church wedding as a Sacrament in the Episcopal Church should have music in keeping with this act of worship. A church wedding is made sacred and holy by being performed before the Altar. Therefore, every effort is made to provide music that expresses both the reverence and the joy of the occasion.
Popular or secular music may be allowed before the wedding procession begins, that is, before the actual worship service of the wedding begins.
Pre-service music is generally left up to the organist – it is usually classical but light-hearted and jubilant. This is also an appropriate time for a vocal or instrumental solo.
Music is selected in consultation with St. Alban’s Music Director. The following are considered inappropriate for church wedding processionals in the Episcopal Church:
The parish organist should be contacted as soon as the wedding date is set, but at least 60 days before the wedding to ascertain availability and begin work on the music selection. If you plan to have music selections performed by vocalists and /or instrumentalists, please discuss it with the parish organist who must approve the use of the piano or organ to be played by another musician. Theorganist’s fee is $150 ($50 for consultation and $100.00 for rehearsal and wedding day). Any fees for other musicians are the responsibility of the couple.
If you wish to use an organist who is not the organist of St. Alban’s even though our organist is available to play at the wedding, the $150.00 fee described above is still due to the organist of St. Alban’s as well as any fee for such other organist. This is known as a “bench fee,” and it is a customary contractual arrangement with most church organists encouraged by the American Guild of Organists.
The canons of the Episcopal church (Title II, Canon 5) state, in part: “It shall be the duty of every member of the Clergy to see that music is used as an offering for the glory of God and as a help to the people in their worship... To this end, the Member of the Clergy shall have final authority in the administration of matters pertaining to music. In fulfilling this responsibility, the members of the Clergy shall seek assistance from persons skilled in music. Together, they shall see that music is appropriate to the context in which it is used.” Therefore, a church wedding as a Sacrament in the Episcopal Church should have music in keeping with this act of worship. A church wedding is made sacred and holy by being performed before the Altar. Therefore, every effort is made to provide music that expresses both the reverence and the joy of the occasion.
Popular or secular music may be allowed before the wedding procession begins, that is, before the actual worship service of the wedding begins.
Pre-service music is generally left up to the organist – it is usually classical but light-hearted and jubilant. This is also an appropriate time for a vocal or instrumental solo.
Music is selected in consultation with St. Alban’s Music Director. The following are considered inappropriate for church wedding processionals in the Episcopal Church:
- Bridal Chorus from Lohengrin (“Here Comes the Bride”), R. Wagner
- “Wedding March” (Midsummer Night’s Dream), Mendelssohn
Music for the Wedding Ceremony
Photographers and videographers may be engaged by the couple for the wedding, but they must be informed that this is primarily a religious ceremony and that there are certain rules which must be followed: Flash photography during the service is prohibited.
Photographers and videographers may be engaged by the couple for the wedding, but they must be informed that this is primarily a religious ceremony and that there are certain rules which must be followed: Flash photography during the service is prohibited.
- Non-flash photography is permitted, so long as the photographer is not intrusive or conspicuous in the performance of their job.
- No supplemental lighting may be used during the service.
- Portions of the service may be “restaged” afterward, if necessary.
- The set-up of all equipment must be completed at least 20 minutes prior to the scheduled start time of the wedding, to not be a distraction to those guests who may wish to pray before the service and to give the couple a chance to center themselves and pray before the wedding.
Music for the Wedding Ceremony
The Marriage License must be given to the priest no later than rehearsal, preferably the morning of the day of the rehearsal You may also go online with the State of Florida and obtain a marriage license.
NOTE: There will be no wedding service without a valid marriage license brought to the Rehearsal or given to the Rector before the rehearsal.
The Marriage License must be given to the priest no later than rehearsal, preferably the morning of the day of the rehearsal You may also go online with the State of Florida and obtain a marriage license.
NOTE: There will be no wedding service without a valid marriage license brought to the Rehearsal or given to the Rector before the rehearsal.
Safety Considerations
An aisle runner may not be used for reasons of safety. The only exception to this is an aisle runner that is made of cloth that is lined and no more than 30 feet long and rolled out only for the entrance of the couple whether they enter together or individually. Confetti, rice or other things traditionally thrown may not be used in the church. Rose petals are permitted and may be gently scattered. Birdseed may be thrown outside, or bubbles might be used to greet the couple as they leave the church. Otherwise, the invitation should advise guests that only street parking nearby is available for useand that arriving by taxi or ride-sharing service is a good option.
An aisle runner may not be used for reasons of safety. The only exception to this is an aisle runner that is made of cloth that is lined and no more than 30 feet long and rolled out only for the entrance of the couple whether they enter together or individually. Confetti, rice or other things traditionally thrown may not be used in the church. Rose petals are permitted and may be gently scattered. Birdseed may be thrown outside, or bubbles might be used to greet the couple as they leave the church. Otherwise, the invitation should advise guests that only street parking nearby is available for useand that arriving by taxi or ride-sharing service is a good option.
Arrival at the Church Prior to the Beginning of the Wedding
All members of the wedding party are expected to be at the church no later than 1 hour before the service begins. This permits time to gather in quiet in advance of this sacrament.
Use of St. Alban's Parish Hall
Please contact the Parish Office at 727-360-8406 if you would like to use the Parish Hall for a rehearsal dinner, or reception following the wedding service. Please note, that the use of Alcoholic Beverages is permitted in accordance with St. Alban’s Alcohol Policies. A copy of this will be provided as needed.
Fees
The fees for weddings at St. Alban’s are 600 dollars.
Rehearsal
The rehearsal will take no more than an hour. Persons needed for the rehearsal are--
All members of the wedding party are expected to be at the church no later than 1 hour before the service begins. This permits time to gather in quiet in advance of this sacrament.
Use of St. Alban's Parish Hall
Please contact the Parish Office at 727-360-8406 if you would like to use the Parish Hall for a rehearsal dinner, or reception following the wedding service. Please note, that the use of Alcoholic Beverages is permitted in accordance with St. Alban’s Alcohol Policies. A copy of this will be provided as needed.
Fees
The fees for weddings at St. Alban’s are 600 dollars.
Rehearsal
The rehearsal will take no more than an hour. Persons needed for the rehearsal are--
- the couple to be married,
- their principal attendants (best person/man/woman, maid/matron/man of honor, etc.),
- all other attendants of the couple (sometimes called “bridesmaids,” “groomsmen,” etc.),
- ushers (if any),
- readers,
- soloists (if any),
- any escorts of either member of the couple (if, for example, one or more of their parentsor another significant person will walk either or both of them down the aisle)
- any other significant persons or loved ones (such as parents, grandparents, other family elders who will be seated in assigned locations before the beginning of the service and who need to be made familiar with the space).
Finally, the Wedding!
In scheduling the hour of the wedding, please remember that a wedding service takes about 60 minutes without Holy Communion, and about one hour and thirty minutes with Holy Communion. This may be significantwhen figuring out the time of arrival at the place where the wedding reception is to be held.
Ushers should plan to be at the church, ready to play their important part in greeting and seating the guests, at least 30 minutes before the scheduled start of the wedding.
Both members of the couple are to be married and all their attendants should be at the church at least 30 minutes ahead of time as well.
FINAL DETAILS, QUESTIONS, OR CONCERNS
Please do not hesitate to call with any questions you may have. We will do our very best to answer your questions and to make your wedding day a joyous beginning for your marriage!
Having read through this wedding customary carefully, if you would like to move forward with planning a wedding at St. Paul’s, please be in touch with our church office.
Again, congratulations, and may God bless you.
A Prayer for Couples
God of tenderness and strength, you have brought our paths together and led us to this day; gowith us now as we travel through good times, through the trouble, or through change. Bless our home, our partings, and our meetings. Make us worthy of each other’s best, and tender with each other’s dreams, trusting in your love. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
In scheduling the hour of the wedding, please remember that a wedding service takes about 60 minutes without Holy Communion, and about one hour and thirty minutes with Holy Communion. This may be significantwhen figuring out the time of arrival at the place where the wedding reception is to be held.
Ushers should plan to be at the church, ready to play their important part in greeting and seating the guests, at least 30 minutes before the scheduled start of the wedding.
Both members of the couple are to be married and all their attendants should be at the church at least 30 minutes ahead of time as well.
FINAL DETAILS, QUESTIONS, OR CONCERNS
Please do not hesitate to call with any questions you may have. We will do our very best to answer your questions and to make your wedding day a joyous beginning for your marriage!
Having read through this wedding customary carefully, if you would like to move forward with planning a wedding at St. Paul’s, please be in touch with our church office.
Again, congratulations, and may God bless you.
A Prayer for Couples
God of tenderness and strength, you have brought our paths together and led us to this day; gowith us now as we travel through good times, through the trouble, or through change. Bless our home, our partings, and our meetings. Make us worthy of each other’s best, and tender with each other’s dreams, trusting in your love. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
A Final Checklist for the Couple
- Secure Wedding Date and Time.
- Reserve Rehearsal Date and Time.
- Obtain a Marriage License from the Clerk of the Circuit Court within a monthbefore the wedding.
- Set up 4-5 appointments to meet with the Priest for pre-marital counseling sessions.
- Meet with Organist to discuss processional and recessional marches, any soloists, pieces to be played, special music requests, etc., allowing plenty of time before the wedding date.
- Consult with Rector regarding the altar flowers you wish topurchase and from which florist. In addition, you may wish to discuss any specialdecorations you had in mind.
- Discuss with the Rector or Wedding Director the selection of bulletin covers and to set up your service bulletin.
- Select Scriptures to be read during the service.
- Choose and contact Readers. Remember, the readers must be able to be heard and understood. Be sure to give them the Scriptures well in advance so they can practice and be comfortable with their delivery.
- Bring Marriage License to the Rector no later than the morning of the rehearsal day.
- Make checks covering all honoraria/fees (per attached list of all applicable, required fees) and send them to the church no later than one week before the wedding. This may be paid by credit card for a total balance.
- Those who are in charge of securing the nave (church building) will be ready to leave 45 minutes after the wedding service is over. Please be mindful of this time limit.
Music Resources
Since the available music that is suitable for the Sacrament of Marriage is so extensive, the list given here is of compositions that enhance and emphasize the joy of the Celebration. The bride and groom are encouraged to make an appointment with St. Alban’s Organist, Mrs. Kay Mann so that selections can be heard and decisions about the music are made as early in the planning process as possible.
PRELUDES
Jesus, Joy of Man’s Desiring - J.S. Bach
Canon in D Major - J. Pachelbel
Aria in F Major - G.F. Handel
Air for the G String - J.S. Bach
Allegretto - from Four Seasons (“Spring”) - A. Vivaldi
TRUMPET TUNES/PROCESSIONS
Prince of Denmark’s March (Trumpet Voluntary) - J. Clarke
Trumpet Tune (Martial Air) - H. Purcell
Trumpet March - J.B. Lully
Rondeau (Festival Fanfare) - J.J. Mouret
Festival Te Deum - M.A. Charpentier
MARCHES/PROCESSIONS
Riguadon - A. Campra
Festival March - G.F. Handel
Postlude in G Major - G.F. Handel
Thaxted (from the orchestral suite “The Planets”) - Gustav Holst
MARCHES/PROCESSIONS
Riguadon - A. Campra
Festival March - G.F. Handel
Postlude in G Major - G.F. Handel
Thaxted (from the orchestral suite “The Planets”) - Gustav Holst
RECESSIONALS
Trumpet Voluntary - J. Stanley
Allegro Maestoso (“Hornpipe”) - G.F. Handel
Psalm XIX - B. Marcello
Allegro Pomposo - Roseingrave
Processional of Joy - Beethoven/Hopson
POSTLUDES
La Rejouissance - G.F. Handel
Organ Symphony V-Toccata - C.M. Widor
Organ Symphony I-Finale - L. Vierne
Of course, there are many others, but these are lovely and hard to beat! Consulting St. Alban’s Organist will help you decide.
Since the available music that is suitable for the Sacrament of Marriage is so extensive, the list given here is of compositions that enhance and emphasize the joy of the Celebration. The bride and groom are encouraged to make an appointment with St. Alban’s Organist, Mrs. Kay Mann so that selections can be heard and decisions about the music are made as early in the planning process as possible.
PRELUDES
Jesus, Joy of Man’s Desiring - J.S. Bach
Canon in D Major - J. Pachelbel
Aria in F Major - G.F. Handel
Air for the G String - J.S. Bach
Allegretto - from Four Seasons (“Spring”) - A. Vivaldi
TRUMPET TUNES/PROCESSIONS
Prince of Denmark’s March (Trumpet Voluntary) - J. Clarke
Trumpet Tune (Martial Air) - H. Purcell
Trumpet March - J.B. Lully
Rondeau (Festival Fanfare) - J.J. Mouret
Festival Te Deum - M.A. Charpentier
MARCHES/PROCESSIONS
Riguadon - A. Campra
Festival March - G.F. Handel
Postlude in G Major - G.F. Handel
Thaxted (from the orchestral suite “The Planets”) - Gustav Holst
MARCHES/PROCESSIONS
Riguadon - A. Campra
Festival March - G.F. Handel
Postlude in G Major - G.F. Handel
Thaxted (from the orchestral suite “The Planets”) - Gustav Holst
RECESSIONALS
Trumpet Voluntary - J. Stanley
Allegro Maestoso (“Hornpipe”) - G.F. Handel
Psalm XIX - B. Marcello
Allegro Pomposo - Roseingrave
Processional of Joy - Beethoven/Hopson
POSTLUDES
La Rejouissance - G.F. Handel
Organ Symphony V-Toccata - C.M. Widor
Organ Symphony I-Finale - L. Vierne
Of course, there are many others, but these are lovely and hard to beat! Consulting St. Alban’s Organist will help you decide.
Wedding Fee Schedule
Holy Matrimony is a sacramental rite in the Church, and we at St. Alban's are delighted that you are seeking God’s blessing on your marriage. St. Alban's is a very busy church, and wedding parties are our guests. We know what works smoothly here for everyone involved, and how to make your wedding day holy, gracious, and beautiful. Amidst these guidelines, there is some room for creativity. We welcome conversations with our Rector about what that might include.
The fee for a wedding at St. Alban’s Church for non-members is $700. This fee includes the use of the nave, parish hall, and parking area.
Fee Waiver for Active Members of Saint Alban's Church because of Financial Hardship or Size of Wedding:
At the sole discretion of the Rector, some of the basic fees may be waived. The waiver is always granted in cases where either or both persons marrying are Active Members of the parish. The waiver may be granted if the parents (not grandparents, aunts, uncles, etc.) of either or both couples are active members of Saint Alban’s, and the couple is active members of another Christian congregation.
A waiver may also be granted in cases of financial hardship and in consideration of the size of the wedding. This is to say, small weddings of 10 persons or fewer will be done in one of the chapels in the sanctuary at St. Alban's
An “active member” is a person who, at the time of the wedding, fulfills all these criteria:
Holy Matrimony is a sacramental rite in the Church, and we at St. Alban's are delighted that you are seeking God’s blessing on your marriage. St. Alban's is a very busy church, and wedding parties are our guests. We know what works smoothly here for everyone involved, and how to make your wedding day holy, gracious, and beautiful. Amidst these guidelines, there is some room for creativity. We welcome conversations with our Rector about what that might include.
The fee for a wedding at St. Alban’s Church for non-members is $700. This fee includes the use of the nave, parish hall, and parking area.
- It does not include fees for flowers, caterers, photographers/videographers, wedding coordinators, wedding programs, DJs, or musicians other than the church organist.
- The fees for all of these additional services will be billed and collected by the various service providers who must be chosen from pre-approved lists available from the church office.
- If additional musicians besides the church organist are desired and are arranged through the organist/director of music, those fees will be added to the other wedding fees and payable to the church.
- Most of this fee is applied to the ongoing restoration costs of the buildings onthe St Alban's campus which are over 50 years old.
- It does not include fees for flowers, caterers, photographers/videographers, wedding coordinators, wedding programs, DJs, or musicians other than the church organist. The fees for all of these services will be billed and collected by the various service providers who must be chosen from pre-approved lists available from the church office.
- If additional musicians, including vocalists, besides the church organist, are desired and thechurch organist is expected to accompany them during the service, an additional fee of $100/rehearsal will be added to the other wedding fees and payable to the church.
Fee Waiver for Active Members of Saint Alban's Church because of Financial Hardship or Size of Wedding:
At the sole discretion of the Rector, some of the basic fees may be waived. The waiver is always granted in cases where either or both persons marrying are Active Members of the parish. The waiver may be granted if the parents (not grandparents, aunts, uncles, etc.) of either or both couples are active members of Saint Alban’s, and the couple is active members of another Christian congregation.
A waiver may also be granted in cases of financial hardship and in consideration of the size of the wedding. This is to say, small weddings of 10 persons or fewer will be done in one of the chapels in the sanctuary at St. Alban's
An “active member” is a person who, at the time of the wedding, fulfills all these criteria:
- is recorded in the parish register as a baptized or confirmed member.
- is known to the clergy as a regular participant in corporate worship.
- is known to the parish treasurer as a regular financial contribution