Baptisms, Marriages and Funerals

Marriages

Marriage is a lifelong commitment, and should not be entered into lightly. The following information should offer help and guidance on matters related to marriage for those requesting their ceremony to be held within our church. In Christian marriage, vows are taken, and promises are made which include God. Therefore, everyone involved needs to be aware of what this undertaking means.

Do We Need To Be Church Members?

We do not insist that couples should be members of the Church and welcome everyone. But we hope that those who come to us will want more than simply having “a nice location to be married in”.

Can Divorced People Be Remarried?

Sadly, marriage breakdown has become more common in our society, but being divorced does not automatically exclude anyone from remarrying in the church. Indeed, the Church of Scotland believes that everyone should be given the facility to start afresh. However, it is left to the individual minister’s discretion and, where appropriate, our minister will be privileged to assist.

What Do I Need To get Married?

A church wedding is the ceremonial heart of a marriage. The legal requirement is the signing of the Marriage Schedule. The Schedule is issued by the Registrar on notice and presentation of the appropriate documents: Birth certificates, Death certificate(s) of a deceased spouse, copy(ies) of Decree of Divorce. It is now the legal requirement to give 28 full days’ notice of the intent to marriage to the Registrar. All couples are urged to be in touch with the Registrar at least two months prior to the date of the intended marriage. No marriage can take place without a marriage schedule.

Order of Service / Vows

Our minister, Andre can discuss how you sense you would like things to be done and who will be involved. He will strive to make your day unique and special for you. However, while there is room for flexibility, this will always be within the framework that it is a Christian service taking place within a sanctuary.

Taking of Photographs and Videos

The taking of photographs by guests is not allowed during the reading of the Bible and the reflection in the worship service, but opportunities will be given, as by prior arrangement. The taking of videos is allowed from specified areas within the church, and, again, the minister will be happy to advise.

Flowers

If you wish flowers in the church, a suitable time for their insertion must be agreed with the church office. This is normally done the night before or on the morning of the wedding.

How much does it cost to married in the church?

The use of the church £170
The organist, if required, £85
The church officer/cleaner £65

It would be appreciated if these fees could be placed in separate marked envelopes and given to the minister on or before the wedding day.

On the Day

The Bridegroom and Best Man must be at the church 30 minutes before the wedding begins. It is the responsibility of the Best Man to bring the Marriage Schedule and the rings with him.

The Bride should arrive on time, or as near as possible!

Baptism

In the Church of Scotland, Baptism is a Sacrament, and it is through this special event that we are welcomed into God’s family.

What is it?

Baptism is the sign and seal of our adoption by God as members of His family through the Life, Death and Resurrection of Jesus Christ.

Who can receive it?

The Sacrament of Baptism is available to children of those parents who believe in God and accept and confess Jesus Christ to be their Lord and Saviour. Adult Baptism is also offered to every believer.

Funerals

Part of life’s journey is caring about endings and being able to remember and give thanks for our loves one’s life. Traditionally, church has always played a key role in this, and this is something we are still very committed to.

Each Church of Scotland is allocated an area to care for and this historically was called The Parish. Our area at St Columba’s covers from Kingseat, through Bellyeoman area and into Townhill.

To arrange or discuss any of the above services, please contact us