About Weddings
"Marriage is a gift of God and a means of his grace, in which man and woman become one flesh. It is God’s purpose that, as husband and wife give themselves to each other in love, they shall grow together and be united in that love, as Christ is united with his Church. The union of man and woman in heart, body, and mind is intended for their mutual comfort and help, that they may know each other with delight and tenderness in acts of love [and that they may be blessed in the procreation, care, and upbringing of children]. In marriage, husband and wife give themselves to each other, to care for each other in good times and in bad. They are linked to each other’s families, and they begin a new life together in the community." (From the "Celebration and Blessing of Marriage," The Book of Alternative Services, The Anglican Church of Canada).
If you are planning to get married, congratulations! Marriage is a special calling.
People may have a number of different reasons for thinking about a church wedding, even if they do not currently regularly attend any church. Perhaps you are thinking that you might want to get married at St John's. You don't have to be a member to have your wedding here. We would be honoured and glad to help you make this very important step in your lives.
The following guidelines are offered if you are thinking of a church wedding.
"Christian Marriage" and Baptism
Because getting married in a church automatically implies a Christian wedding and the Christian concept of marriage,normally at least one, if not both of the parties getting married, will be a baptised Christian. It does not matter in which Christian denomination you were baptised. If one or both parties are not baptised, you may want to discuss with the priest the possibility of making this commitment prior to your marriage.
Remarriage
People who have been legally divorced can remarry in the Anglican Church with a valid marriage license.
Marriage Preparation
The church believes that all couples should prepare for marriage with a marriage preparation course. The priest who is marrying you may agree to offer such a course privately, or may be able to enrol you with a group of couples who are preparing at the same time. Alternatively, you may be able to arrange a marriage preparation course through another provider, such as a marriage counsellor or an organisation such as Engaged Encounter.
Fees
The church collects no fee for marriage preparation, but offers it as its ministry to you. In some cases there is a small cost for materials.
The customary fee for a full wedding ceremony at St John's is $350. In addition, it is customary that a donation of $200 be given to the church. A receipt for income tax purposes is given and issued in January for any donation. In the case of a wedding in the chapel without guests and the minimum of witnesses, a wedding can be arranged without fee.
Contact Us
Again, these are guidelines. If you need further information or would like to discuss a particular situation, please call the church at 905-522-0602. Ask to speak to the Rector. You can also leave a message by voice mail at any time.