Weddings
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​Congratulations on your engagement! An exciting and happy time lies ahead and there will be so much to think about. This page provides an introduction to being married in church.
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A church is so much more than simply a venue for your wedding. A church wedding will add a spiritual dimension to your marriage. The ceremony includes God and looks to him for help and guidance. God’s blessing is the main attraction for many couples, whatever their beliefs. The vows you make will help you to stay together and grow together. God and your church are there for you to help you keep your vows.
A church wedding blends ancient tradition and modern experience to reflect your story, making your wedding personal, memorable and meaningful. Our church building offers outstanding beauty, intimacy and offers centuries of history. Imagine all the couples who have married in St James Church. You can be involved in making choices about your ceremony. For some people, a church simply seems like the proper place to get married. Churches can be described as ‘peaceful’, ‘serene’, or having an atmosphere that makes marrying there a particularly special experience. And after your wedding, you’ll realise that a church is more than simply a wedding venue. We’ll always be here for you.
The good news is that you can marry in church regardless of your beliefs, whether or not you are christened and whether or not you have been a regular churchgoer. Getting married gives you a whole new legal status with many benefits, so there are considerations for the vicar to make in both UK civil and church law and these can be discussed when you first meet the vicar.
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If one or both of you has been married before, there is likely to be a way forward for you to be re-married in church and the vicar will discuss this with you as there are certain considerations in these circumstances. Although same-sex marriage legislation has changed, it remains the case that it is not legally possible for same-sex couples to marry in the Church of England.
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St James is committed to providing a sensitive and personal service. If you are hoping to be married at St James, please contact us and we’ll arrange for you to meet the Vicar and discuss your requirements. In order to be married at St James, you will legally be required to have what is called a ‘Qualifying Connection’: usually obtained by residing within the parish boundaries, but also made by family connections with the church and parish, as well as regular worship at St James. We will be happy to advise. In order to find out which parish you live in, use this website: achurchnearyou.com
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Further information about being married in church and planning your wedding, can be found on this excellent site: yourchurchwedding.org
​Please contact the Benefice Adminstrator, Anne Smith on 01256 880327 or emailing her at admin@stjamesbramley.org.uk
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