WEDDINGS - HOLY MATRIMONY - MARRIAGE

Christians marry in Church and make life-long solemn vows or promises to each other and to God. This binds the parties to each other in the sight of God until death.

Marriage in the Church is therefore a special and wonderful undertaking that changes the two people who are united by God for ever.

Our Lord Jesus Christ was Himself a guest at the wedding in Cana in Galilee, and blessed that marriage by His presence. When a couple ask to be married in Church, and at the service, they too invite Jesus to be present at their wedding and receive His blessing. By asking the Lord Jesus to be part of their marriage He is always there to assist them.

Wedding couples at St George's must, as at all churches, fulfill the legal requirements which concern blood relationships, baptism, previous marriage, local residency, membership of the Parish (Electoral Roll) and financial support for the Parish. All these matters must be discussed and finalised before plans for the reception and dates are booked. What is described as an impediment prevents the marriage taking place, so this is very important.

But equally important is the spiritual preparation, and the preparation for marriage of the couple.

The spiritual preparation consists of learning about the distinctive Christian understanding of marriage and family life, prayer together, learning the Lord's Prayer and discussing the meaning of the solemn vows and of the ceremony.

The wedding preparation considers the content of the service (hymsn, readings and special prayers), the service booklet, the rehearsal in church and the requirements concerning photography, smoking, parking and general behaviour.

Together, these help to ensure the best possible preparation, service and start together for the couple in their married life together.

It is sincerely hoped that the couple continue to play their part in the workings and work of the church, and if and when God gives the gift of children to bring them up in the Church.    

For further information, please contact the Parish Office, Tel: (020) 8844 0457.