The ceremony & clergy
Religious obligations vary from church to church
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Photo by Tom Sapp
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Marriage is considered
a sacred obligation in every religious tradition.
Many churches require that couples undergo counseling before the wedding.
This is meant to help the bride and groom be sure they are serious about their commitment to each
other, and that they are sure about their reasons for wanting to get married.
Some churches limit use of their facilities to church members or their
families. Check early if you have a particular church or chapel in mind to make sure there aren’t
any restrictions.
Some couples, because they come from different religious traditions, or don’t
belong to a church, or have come from out of town for their wedding, prefer to use a free-lance or
non-denominational minister for their ceremony.
Church guidelines
Sometimes it seems that a modern wedding is just another show-biz spectacle.
But for many, it remains a solemn and worshipful religious ceremony.
Most churches expect that the decorations for a wedding will not overshadow
the sanctuary’s religious symbols, and that music be appropriate for the setting.
Photographic lighting is often not permitted during the ceremony itself.
If you are planning a church wedding, be sure you understand the church’s
guidelines. You may be required to have the church’s wedding director present to supervise your use
of the facilities, even if you have hired your own coordinator.
Expect to work around the church’s own scheduled events when setting a time
for your rehearsal.
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