Weddings
The Covenant of Marriage:
At St. Andrew's we believe that marriage is a gift of God through which two people covenant with one another and with God. We affirm that in Christian marriage two people give themselves to each other in the full intention of a lifelong commitment.
We affirm that this unity is a creation of God and is greater than the two individuals. It is entirely appropriate that the ritual act of entering the covenant of marriage should take place in a public gathering in the name of God, as an act of Christian worship. The public forum or setting for your marriage may be the church sanctuary or another location of your choice.
Here at St. Andrew’s the Covenant of Marriage is open to all people committed to the life of faith regardless of race, sexual orientation, gender or cultural background.
While the information below provides the practical information that you need in planning your marriage, we do not want you to feel that these are either the only, or the most important aspects of marriage. Please feel free to contact the office directly with further inquiries.
Normally, all weddings will be conducted by the presiding minister at St. Andrew’s except in cases where another minister may be invited to participate. It is a policy at St. Andrew's that the Music Director has the right of playing at all weddings. Only if the organist, after consultation with you, waives this right, can someone else be invited to play.
The wedding date and the reservation of the sanctuary should be cleared as early as possible through both the Office and Property Coordinators. It is suggested that there be a short rehearsal with timing arranged in consultation with the Minister and Director of Music. Our church soloists are available to sing at weddings should you desire.
Flowers and Decorations:
Guests are asked to refrain from throwing confetti or rice in the building, on the grounds or in the garbage. Flowers should arrive at the church at a time set by you and the church office and at least two hours before the wedding. If you wish to leave flowers to be shared with the congregation on Sunday, please advise the church office. Other decorations should be arranged only after consultation with the Minister. The church can provide brass candelabras for the service.
Marriage Licence:
It is the responsibility of the requesting individuals to ensure all legal arrangements and requirements are met appropriate to the requirements of the province of Ontario. We request that the licensc be brought to the church office at least one week before the wedding.
Fees:
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Minister $200.00
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Music Director $200.00
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Sanctuary Use $200.00
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Piano/Organ $125.00
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Soloist Negotiated as required
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Custodian Negotiated as required
Fees for the church, Music Director, and Minister should be placed in separate, addressed envelopes, and left at the church cffice at the same time that the licence is brought in.