Weddings

A wedding is one of life's great moments.

A time of solemn commitment, as well as good wishes, feasting and joy.

Christians believe that marriage is a gift from God and it is intended by God to be a creative relationship, as his blessing enables husband and wife to love and support each other in good times and in bad, in a self-sacrificial way, putting the needs of their partner before their own.

For Christians, marriage is also an invitation to share life together in the spirit of Jesus Christ. It is based upon a solemn, public and life-long covenant between a man and a woman, declared and celebrated in the presence of God and before witnesses. The marriage ceremony gives you a new legal status as husband and wife and a new stability within which your relationship can flourish and grow.

You're welcome to marry in the Church of England whatever your beliefs, whether or not you are christened and regardless of whether you go to church or not. It's your church, and we welcome you.

If you are thinking of getting married, especially if you are considering holding the ceremony in Melbourne Parish Church, we try to answer below some of the questions you may have.

Why get married in church?

A marriage service, wherever it is held, is a public declaration of love and commitment to your partner.

By choosing to get married in church, there is an added dimension - the assurance that God cares about your relationship and that his resources and strength are available to help you.

Including God in your marriage doesn't mean that you will avoid all the usual ups and downs, but you will know that you can look to God for help and guidance and that his love will sustain you. You will also have the support and encouragement of the Christian Church family.

Our clergy and other members of our congregation look forward to exploring your plans with you and will provide a user-friendly approach to help ensure that you see your marriage preparation as a happy and memorable time. They will guide you in the choices you will want to make around the timing of your service and the necessary preparation before your wedding day.

The 2023 Wedding Seminar

The 2023 Wedding Seminar, bringing together all the couple being married across the Benefice this year.