Weddings

Marriage is a wonderful institution. When it is taken seriously by both people in a relationship it can bring real blessing and joy to them and those close to them. At St. Luke's we love to be a part of celebrating this momentous step in people's lives. We want to encourage them to learn from God's guidance so that this crucial relationship doesn't just survive, but flourish.

Can I get married at St. Luke's?

Firstly, you need to 'qualify' in one of the following ways to be allowed to be married at St. Luke's:

a. One of you lives in St. Luke's parish. A parish is a legally defined geographical area around the church. To check whether you live in St. Luke's parish or to find which parish you do live in then just check out this website: www.achurchnearyou.com/index.php . You can also qualify if you or any of your parents have lived in St. Luke's parish for 6 months or more at any time.

b. You have been baptised at St. Luke's or you or any of your parents have attended the church regularly for six months or more.

c. Any of your parents or your grandparents have been married at St. Luke's.

These are rules set down for all Church of England churches and we may need to see evidence that you qualify.

Secondly, at St. Luke's we have a blanket rule that if you or your fiancée have been married before and your previous husband or wife is still alive then we will not marry you.

How much does it cost?

The cost in 2013 is £406. This includes everything you need for a wedding to take place at St. Luke's including playing recorded music. You will of course need to pay for and arrange for any extras that you want yourself. E.g. photographers, printed orders of service, flower displays etc.. If you want us to sort out some basic flower arrangements there is an additional fee of £50 and if you want a live musician you will have to pay their fee.

What is marriage all about?

A wedding day itself can be a wonderful occasion. Yet, the real blessing comes from the marriage that follows. Marriage is about committing yourself to another person for the rest of your life. This is a big step and shouldn't be taken lightly, but it can bring real joy and blessing.

The commitment is summed up beautifully in the promises that you make to one another in the wedding service itself:

I, N, take you, N,

to be my husband / wife,

to have and to hold

from this day forward;

for better, for worse,

for richer, for poorer,

in sickness and in health,

to love and to cherish,

till death us do part;

according to God's holy law.

In the presence of God I make these vows.

What do I need to do?

If you are interested in a wedding at St. Luke's, then please contact Paul, the vicar, to arrange to meet up and confirm dates (we rarely say "No" to any date requested) on 01843 592562 or vicar@stlukesramsgate.org .