Weddings
The introduction to the marriage service states that ‘marriage is a gift of God in creation and a means of his grace’. For Christians marriage is so much more than a loving partnership between a man and woman. It touches on the very nature of God and creation; it is a communion bound by God’s gift of love; it is life-giving in so many ways.
By choosing to be married in church a couple acknowledges that their union reaches beyond the here and now of everyday life. Having said that, our lives are necessarily lived in the here and now, and so it is that by getting married in church a couple seeks God’s blessing and guidance for the journey that lies ahead of them.
Can I get married in Bury, Houghton, Coldwaltham or Hardham?
Unlike a civil marriage, couples who wish to be married in church do not hire a wedding venue. A marriage service held in church forms part of the rhythm of a parish’s life and worship. With this in mind, legislation requires couples to have a ‘qualifying connection’ with the parish in which they wish to marry.
You may be able to marry in one of the Arun Churches if you can show:-
That one of you:
- has at any time lived in the parish for a period of at least 6 months
- was baptised in the parish
- was prepared for confirmation in the parish
- has at any time regularly gone to normal church services in the parish church for a period of at least 6 months
or that one of your parents, at any time after you were born: - has lived in the parish for a period of at least 6 months
- has regularly gone to normal church services in the parish church for a period of at least 6 months
or that one of your parents or grandparents: - was married in the parish
What next?
The next step is to contact the vicar. He will arrange to meet with you to discuss your requirements.
