Weddings at Emmanuel Church

The Celebration and Blessing of a Marriage is a sacred occasion set in the Church with a community of people who affirm Jesus Christ as their Lord. Church Canons require that at least one of the participants is a baptized Christian. It is our policy that at least one of the couple to be married must be a member of the church. In some cases, exceptions may be made after consultation with the Rector.

We follow the canons of the Episcopal Church and Diocese of North Carolina regarding Holy Matrimony. The liturgy of the Episcopal Church contained in the Book of Common Prayer is the liturgy of the service, as it expresses the Episcopal Church’s understanding of Christian marriage.

The rehearsal and the service itself are under the direction of the Rector or officiating clergy. Other members of the clergy, either of the Episcopal Church or of other denominations who have a special relationship with either participant, may be invited by the officiating priest to assist in the service.

Weddings are scheduled with the Parish Administrator and approved by the Rector and any officiating clergy. No weddings are to be scheduled after 6:00 p.m. Under no circumstances should a wedding be announced formally until the officiating clergy has consented to perform the marriage and it is on the church calendar. Sundays, Lent, and major church feasts are generally avoided.

Music shall be sacred in nature and come from the Hymnal of the Episcopal Church or other sources approved by the officiating clergy. The Emmanuel Organist/Choirmaster normally plays for all funerals. If this, for any reason, is not the case, he will be responsible for securing the substitute organist.

Preparation for a Christian marriage is taken very seriously at Emmanuel. It is required for the couple to be married to attend pre-marital counseling with either a member of the clergy or a professional counselor.

For further information or any questions, you may have, please contact the church, and speak to the Parish administrator.