January 2009 - Vol. 31, Issue No. 1

Dear Friends

At this time of year I usually receive a few enquiries from couples who have become engaged over Christmas and who want to arrange their wedding. Some couples have set their heart on a church service. Others are undecided as they consider the choice between a religious service or a civil ceremony in a register office or other venue. You may have heard on the news that the Church of England has made it easier for couples to book a church wedding. In the past, one or both partners had to reside in the parish or attend the parish church for at least six months and have their name entered on the church’s electoral roll. In some circumstances couples had to obtain a licence, but certain rules still applied. New legislation came into force in October. This doesn’t mean that couples may be married in any church they like. However, it does allow anyone with a “qualifying connection” to apply for a service in the parish church, even if they are not on the church’s electoral roll and do not live in the parish. If you want to check whether you are eligible to be married in a particular church, the first step is to contact the Rector, Vicar or Priest in Charge.

These days many young people move away from the village where they grew up and, in some cases, they don’t put down roots anywhere else until they get married. It is natural that they wish to be married in the parish church which they attended as children and which has special associations for them and their families. I welcome the changes in the law that will make it easier for these couples to arrange their church wedding. I hope that the changes will encourage more couples to consider being married in church. Some couples have a firm Christian faith and are very clear about the meaning of a service in church. Others are less sure what they believe, but still feel that there is something more meaningful about a church wedding. Our church buildings provide beautiful settings for weddings. Even more important is the added dimension of prayer and worship and of seeking God’s blessing on the couple. Family and friends join with the bride and bridegroom as they celebrate and affirm their love, and we are reminded of God’s love for us all.

If you are thinking about getting married, do come along to St. Mary’s Church, East Leake on Saturday 28th February when we have a special event planned. You can read more about it under “Benefice Notes”. Anyone is welcome to attend, although the event should be of especial interest to engaged couples. I shall be there for part of the day and will be pleased to discuss the church marriage service.
With my love and prayers
Glynis Hetherington