Huntington Congregational Church

United Church of Christ

Policy for Weddings

 

 

The purpose of the Wedding Policy is to maintain for the couple desiring to be married: pastoral care through the performance of premarital counseling and the Sacrament of Marriage and to secure fair compensation for the church staff and use of the church building(s) and grounds.

 

1.      The wedding date should be set well in advance to reserve the church and make arrangements with Pastor’s schedule and church activities. A minimum of at least six weeks is recommended. Telephone numbers to call are: 929-1223 or 926-0770.

2.      The Pastor should be approached in order to schedule at least three (3) pre-marital sessions.

3.      The Pastor will officiate at all weddings in the Church unless he/she is unavailable. The Pastor, if requested by the couple, may extend an invitation to another clergy person to assist in the ceremony. The Pastor will conduct the rehearsal and will explain all procedures and policies. The marriage license must be in the Pastor’s possession before the rehearsal begins.

4.      A variety of wedding ceremonies and related materials are available from the Pastor.

5.      The couple in consultation may choose music with the Pastor and Organist and subject to their approval. Arrangements need to be made after the wedding date is confirmed. Only the Organist of the Church may play the organ for weddings, unless he/she is unavailable. In which case, the party will obtain a substitute. The couple shall consult with the Organist at least one (1) month prior to the ceremony.

6.      The couple should make arrangements with a florist for wedding decorations, including a white, plastic runner, if desired. Ribbon or simple floral arrangement may be used to mark the pews, but without defacing woodwork; do not use tacks or tape. Simple and tasteful decorations are encouraged.

7.      Photographers and/or videographers are welcome; but will be asked not to distract from the ceremony. They need to speak to the Pastor prior to the wedding ceremony. No flash pictures are allowed by those in attendance during the ceremony. Posed pictures may be staged following the service.

8.      The use of confetti or rice is not permitted anywhere within the church or on church grounds. Please use birdseed outside of the church. It is not to be brought inside the church.

9.      Smoking is not permitted within the church.

10.        Alcoholic beverages are not permitted within the church or on church grounds. If anyone in the wedding party has been drinking or is intoxicated, either at the rehearsal or the wedding ceremony, the wedding ceremony will not be performed. Guests under the influence will be asked to leave the premises.

11.        The Fellowship Hall is available for receptions on a rental basis. No alcoholic beverages are permitted on church property. Rental arrangements can be made through the church office.

12.        It is the responsibility of the couple being married to insure that all of the above concerns are followed and enforced.