Weddings
We are delighted that you have come to Crossroads United Pastoral Charge to plan your wedding! A church wedding is a service of worship. A Christian marriage is a gift of God through which a couple make a covenant with one another and with God, giving themselves to each other in the full intention of a lifelong commitment. It is also an occasion for family and friends to join in offering praise, prayer and promise to God. The following information is given to help in planning your wedding at Crossroads United Pastoral Charge.
Booking your Wedding
The first step is a tentative booking of the date and time of your wedding. This is done through the church office (204-745-6835). An appointment with one of our ministers should be arranged as early as possible. Together, you will begin to plan your marriage service and confirm your wedding date.
The Wedding Service
The wedding ceremony follows a format which is flexible enough to respond to the needs of the couple and is in keeping with a regular congregational worship. All worship, including the wedding service, is shaped more by the shared common faith and tradition of the church than by individual desires.
In a situation where there is a request for a wedding to be performed by a minister from another church, it shall be under the direction and with the participation of one of our own ministers. The wedding shall follow the United Church wedding worship format and procedures.
Music
We encourage you to choose music that expresses the Christian faith. Some music choices may be suitable for worship, while other music is more appropriate for the reception or dance. Music selection is to be discussed with the minister and church organist. Some couples may wish to arrange for a soloist or other musicians.
Photos and Video taping
No photographs are to be taken during the wedding ceremony, as it is a service of worship. Photos may be taken as the wedding party enter and leave the sanctuary. The minister is willing to re-stage portions of the ceremony after the service.
Videotaping is acceptable within certain limits. Video recorders on a tripod may be placed and running before the service begins. Please discuss this in advance with the minister.
Decorations
The placement of flowers and decorations will respect the worship space. Please discuss the use of candles with the minister so that safety concerns are addressed.
Requests
We request that church furnishings and seasonal banners remain in place.
We request that the marriage license be left with the church secretary of minister one week prior to the wedding.
We request that you refrain from using confetti in the church building or near the exits.
We request that all cell phones and beepers/pagers be turned off as the service begins.
Rehearsal
A rehearsal time will be scheduled in consultation with the minister. Please ensure that all members of the wedding party are in attendance and on time.
Wedding Fees
We request that all fees be brought in with the marriage license one week prior to the wedding.
Carman United Church
Church: $250.00 (This includes the organist, caretaker and sound technician)
Minister
You may wish to show your appreciation for the work done by the minister by offering an honourarium.
Receptions
Arrangements for use of United Place Hall at Carman United Church for a reception can be arranged with the church secretary. This is a separate booking.