As two become one by their promises, God blesses them. Marriage is a gift from God, we, therefore, begin marriage with a service of worship - the wedding.   The focus of the service is on God as the couple hear God's Word, share their promises of faithfulness with each other, and pray for God's blessings upon their union.

If are interested in having your wedding at Faith Lutheran Church, please call the church office to begin the planning process! 

Frequently Asked Questions about Weddings at Faith Lutheran Church:

The Date

​The date for the wedding should be set as far in advance as possible.  Call the church office to inquire about availability and reserve a spot on the master calendar.  At this time the couple should also schedule a meeting with the pastor to discuss their plans and set a time for the premarital counseling sessions.

The Marriage License

​The couple must fully comply with all provisions of State Law.  The marriage license can be obtained at the County Clerk's office located in the courthouse at 40l W. Markham. 

Premarital Counseling

Premarital counseling is required to prepare the couple for marriage.  Arrangements for counseling sessions should be made with the pastor at the time of setting the wedding date. 

The Marriage Service

Since the service is an act of worship, the pastor is responsible for ensuring that its arrangements and conduct, reflect the style and teachings of the church. At the same time, we will do everything we can to help make it a truly personal occasion that fulfills as much as possible the desires of the couple.
The marriage service may take place in the context of the Service of Holy Communion.  When Holy Communion is celebrated, however, it must be open to the congregation and not be limited to the bride and groom, or the wedding party.

G​uest Pastors

When the wedding is to be held at the church, the Faith pastor will preside.  A guest pastor may participate on agreement, with and upon invitation from the presiding minister.

Music

A wedding is an act of worship; therefore, sacred and classical music selected for the service should be that which is considered appropriate. 
Secular music is not permitted in the church nave either before or during the wedding service. All music selected is subject to the approval by the minister of music; Becky Webb.  The minister of music should be contacted well in advance of the date to ensure her availability for the rehearsal and the wedding.

Bulletins

​You are welcome to design and print your own bulletins.  However, you will need to discuss with the pastor appropriate artwork and content.  For a minimal charge the church secretary is available to work with you in printing pre-packaged bulletin covers (available at Mardel etc). The bride or someone associated with the wedding party is responsible to for all proofreading.

Decorations

The guiding principle followed in establishing rules for decorations is that the nave is designed for all church services, including weddings.  Please observe the following:

• Because of the beauty of the chancel area, simple arrangements are suggested.  Fresh flowers and greenery are appropriate.  Bows and/or sprays of greenery may be used on the pews, the pulpit, the communion rail, and the altar (they must be affixed with floral wire or clamps, no nails may be used).
• The altar candlesticks and the altar cross are not to be moved. 
• Please take precautions to protect woodwork and floors from possible damage from potted plants, weeping flowers, dripping wax, or sticky tape. No tacks or nails are permitted in walls, woodwork, or furniture.  The finish on the floor will be damaged by water so take the necessary precautions.                                                             

• The decorations of the church for the Christmas season must be used at weddings performed during this time. 
• The paraments and other chancel appointments in use for the particular season or day of the church/year may-not be changed for the wedding.
• No fixed furniture or appointments in the church nave and chancel may be moved.
• Decorations should be removed following the wedding.  The building must be left, in the same condition as found, clean and clear of all added equipment/materials.
  
• Chancel and/or narthex flowers may be left for use at the Sunday morning worship service.
• Persons arranging for the use of facilities will be held responsible and billed accordingly for any damage done to the furniture, floors, building or premises.
• The church is not responsible for any flower, clothing, or equipment deliveries.  Those are the responsibility of the wedding party.

R​ehearsal

It is usual to hold a rehearsal conducted by the pastor at the church on the evening before the marriage.  We suggest you appoint someone to act as the wedding director.  This person will oversee any special seating as well as the wedding party's processional in relation to timing and order. Please have the marriage license available to be given to the pastor at the rehearsal.

​Dressing Facilities

There are numerous rooms as well as bathroom facilities for the bridal party to prepare and dress for the ceremony.  We suggest the choir room for the ladies and the youth room for the gentlemen. 

Photographs and Videotaping

Photography and videotaping allowed during the ceremony as long as the execution is discreet and without flash or supplemental lighting. 

Acolytes

If so desired acolytes, crucifers, and banner bearers must be provided by the wedding party.

The Reception

• The Fellowship Hall may be used for wedding receptions.  The kitchen and fellowship hall are to be left in the same condition as they were found.  Persons arranging for the use of facilities will be held responsible and billed accordingly for any damage done to the equipment, kitchen ware, tables and chairs etc.
• Alcoholic beverages are not to be brought to or consumed anywhere on the premises.  

Parking

Please make appropriate use of available parking.  Handicapped spots are available and designated as such.

Birdseed

As the couple leaves the church, birdseed may be thrown.  Seed is only to be thrown outdoors.

Smoking Policy

Smoking is not permitted in the church building. 

Number of Guests

Sanctuary Seating Capacity: 180
​Fellowship Hall Capacity: 200

​Facility Fees

Sanctuary  - $500
Fellowship Hall/Kitchen - $300

​Honoraria

Both the presiding minister and the church musician receive honoraria for their services prior to the wedding.  The couple should consult with them to determine the current amount.