Weddings

"Holy matrimony is Christian marriage, 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.”

 

--The Book of Common Prayer

 Dearly Beloved . . .

At Emmanuel, we believe that all committed relationships are outward and visible signs of an inward, spiritual, and God-given love. Emmanuel seeks to support all couples in their commitment to one another and to help make the love of God more visible for the whole community.

 

We adhere to the marriage ceremonies authorized by the Episcopal Church, which includes services for same-sex couples. 

 

The FAQs below and this brief explanation of our basic policies may be helpful as you consider your plans.


After you have read the policies, if you want to  inquire about getting married at Emmanuel, please complete this application. Our Director of Administration will then be in touch with you. 

FAQs About Marriage and Weddings at Emmanuel

  • Who can get married at Emmanuel?

    In the Episcopal Church, it is required that at least one of the parties be a baptized Christian, that the ceremony be attested by at least two witnesses, and that the marriage conform to the laws of the state and the canons of the church.


    At Emmanuel, it is customary that at least one of the parties be a member in good standing of this parish, or be a close relative of a member in good standing.  If this is not the case, please speak with our clergy about exceptions.

  • Is premarital counseling required?

    Yes.  The clergy member who will solemnize the marriage typically meets with the couple on several occasions prior to the service to discuss the meaning of Christian marriage.  

  • Does Emmanuel have someone who helps plan the service?

    Emmanuel has an experienced Wedding Guild that  will assist with your plans.  Our team works with you over the months leading up to your wedding day, to ensure that your service proceeds smoothly while complying with church policies. These services are included within our overall fee structure.

  • How do I arrange to have music at my wedding?

    The parish organist will play for your service or arrange for a suitable substitute and will work with you on special requests.  We do not permit secular music. 

  • What decorations can I have in the church?

    Our Wedding Guild will advise you on the feasibility of any decorations you propose using for the ceremony. As a general rule, decorations may not involve taping or making holes in doors, walls or furniture.  For safety reasons, we do not permit aisle runners or flower petals in the church.

  • Can I have photographs taken during the service?

    No photography is permitted during the liturgy.  The retiring processional is not part of the liturgy, so photos may be taken as the wedding party leaves the altar.  Also, you may set up a video camera at the back of the church, and photographs may be taken before and after the service.  

  • What is the seating capacity at Emmanuel?

    The maximum seating in our sanctuary is 242  in the main front-facing pews.  Another 70 people can sit in the pews that face the altar from the sides.


    If you are contemplating a more intimate gathering, you may want to consider using our chapel, which has maximum seating for 61.