Weddings

Marriage Policy

For Christians, marriage is a covenant through which a man and a woman are called to live out together their lives of discipleship before God.  In a service of Christian marriage, a lifelong commitment is made by a woman and a man to each other, publicly witnessed and acknowledged by the community of faith.  As this is the basis of Christian marriage defined by the Book of Order of the Presbyterian Church, USA, Covenant has set forth the following policy on marriage ceremonies performed at this church.

1) Prior to the ceremony

a) The pastor, or someone deemed acceptable to the clergy, will meet with the couple for pre-marital consultation sessions.  When the pastor is convinced after discussion with the couple that commitment, responsibility, maturity and Christian understanding are present, the pastor may conduct the ceremony.  If the former are so lacking that the pastor deems the ceremony to be unwise, the pastor shall assure the couple of the church’s continuing concern for them and not conduct the ceremony.  If the couple decides that Covenant is not the suitable location for their wedding, the pastor may guide them to other resources if this is agreeable to both parties. The Session has empowered the pastor to make this decision, but he/she may consult the Session further if so desired.

2) Planning of the Service

a) There are three peaks in the wedding:  the entry, the exchange of vows, and the pronouncement and introduction.  The bride and groom, in consultation with the pastor, are the final authority for all decisions.  In questions of desired elements, readers, non-biblical literature, special prayers, etc., these must be worked out with the clergy.  In writing one’s own vows, they should reflect the promise of love and faithfulness.  Other actions common to the community and its culture may appropriately be observed when these actions do not diminish the Christian understanding of marriage.

b) Music suitable for the marriage service directs attention to God and expresses the faith of the church. 

c) Flowers, decorations and other appointments should be appropriate to the place of worship, enhance the worshippers’ consciousness of the reality of God, and reflect the integrity and simplicity of Christian life.

3) Photography

a)   No flash pictures are permitted during the ceremony.

b)   No pictures are permitted during the ceremony, except those where the photographer is unobserved.

c)   Video cameras are permitted only in the balcony.

4) Fees

a)   Members of the congregation

i)    Organist or Pianist: $125.00 per wedding, plus an extra $25.00 per rehearsal with soloists.

ii)   There is no fee for the pastor or for use of the facility.

b)   Non-members

i)    Organist or Pianist: $125.00 per wedding, plus an extra $25.00 per rehearsal with soloists.

ii)   There is a $250 fee for the clergy that covers pre-marital consultation, rehearsal, wedding and other related time spent in preparation.  In addition, there is a $100.00 fee for usage of the facility.

May, 2008