Marriage – Holy Matrimony

A wedding is one of life’s great moments, a time of solemn commitment as well as good wishes, feasting and joy. In his Gospel, St John tells us how Jesus shared in such an occasion at Cana, and gave there a sign of new beginnings by turning water into wine.

Marriage is intended by God to be a creative relationship. God’s blessing enables husband and wife to love and support each other in good times and bad, and to share in the care and upbringing of children. For Christians, marriage is also an invitation to share life together in the spirit of Jesus Christ. It is based on a solemn public and life-long covenant between two people who love one another and who have made a very special decision about their future together. It is celebrated in the presence of God and before witnesses.

A couple thinking about marriage in Church should contact the Parish Priest in the first instance; a meeting will be arranged to talk about their wedding day plans, a Banns Form will need to be filled in, providing information to be recorded in the Marriage Registers and on the Marriage Certificate. A couple’s intention of getting married will be read publicly in Church, on three preceding Sundays – called ‘Reading the Banns’ – to ascertain if there is any reason to prevent the marriage. If all goes well, further meetings will be arranged to explore a couple’s understanding of the Marriage Service, married life with all its ups and downs and, of course, the Christian context in which marriage is to be celebrated.

The Priest will let them know what the costs will be and they can make decisions about having the bells rung, about the church Flower Team looking after the floral arrangements; then there’s the choice of ceremonial organ music and hymns - our Director of Music can assist you in this - and also what readings might be included in the Marriage Service.

Renewal of Vows & Blessing of Civil Weddings

We often celebrate a married couple’s anniversary - renewing the vows of marriage they made to one another.
If this is something you would like to consider, contact the Parish Priest. We are also glad to talk to any couple who plan a civil wedding but who would like to come to Church for a service of prayer and blessing.
This includes those who celebrate their love and commitment to one another though a Civil Partnership ceremony.

Contact: The Vicar (Parish Priest)
Tel: 020-7226 4108 St James' Vicarage, 1A Arlington Square, Islington, London N1 7DS
E-mail: vicar@stjamesislington.org