What is Holy Matrimony?

Holy Matrimony is Christian marriage, in which the couple enters into a life‑long union, make their vows before God and the Church, and receive the grace and blessing of God to help them fulfill their vows.  -The Book of Common Prayer, p.861

Concerning the Service

Christian marriage is a solemn and public covenant between the couple in the presence of God. In the Episcopal Church it is required that one, at least, of the parties must be a baptized Christian; that the ceremony be attested by at least two witnesses; and that the marriage conform to the laws of the State and the canons of this Church.

A priest or a bishop normally presides at the Celebration and Blessing of a Marriage, because such ministers alone have the function of pronouncing the nuptial blessing, and of celebrating the Holy Eucharist.

When both a bishop and a priest are present and officiating, the bishop should pronounce the blessing and preside at the Eucharist. A deacon, or an assisting priest, may deliver the charge, ask for the Declaration of Consent, read the Gospel, and perform other assisting functions at the Eucharist.

Where it is permitted by civil law that deacons may perform marriages, and no priest or bishop is available, a deacon may use the service which follows, omitting the nuptial blessing which follows The Prayers.

The Episcopal Church requires at least thirty days notice before the celebration of Marriage.  However, more time is required to ensure the proper time is available for marriage preparation.  The preparation usually requires six to eight meetings with the priest.

If you are interested in Marriage please see Fr. Neal after the service on Sunday to make an appointment.