Weddings

Congratulations on your upcoming marriage! Thank you for considering Portland United Church as part of your special day. As a Christian community, we believe that love is a reflection of God in our lives. Marriage is a sacred covenant between two people, witnessed by their community and God. We celebrate and affirm all expressions of love, welcoming people of every sexual orientation, gender identity, race, ethnicity, ability, age, and socio-economic background.

This policy outlines the guidelines and expectations for marriages conducted by Portland United Church, whether held in our sanctuary or an alternate location.

Initial Steps

Consultation with the Minister: The first step in planning your marriage with Portland United Church is to contact our Minister to discuss your desired date, time, and vision for the ceremony. Please wait to make formal arrangements or send invitations until your date and time have been confirmed by the Minister.
Marriage Preparation: The Minister will meet with you to get to know your story, provide marriage preparation, and plan the service together. These sessions are intended to strengthen your relationship and prepare you for your life together.

Marriage Ceremony

Christian Worship Service: Marriage ceremonies at Portland United Church are services of Christian worship. This will guide decisions around music, readings, and the overall structure of the service. The final form and content of the ceremony must be approved by the Minister.
Officiant: It is our policy that the Minister of Portland United Church officiates all marriages. Should you wish to involve an additional Minister, Priest, or other faith leader, this must be arranged in consultation with the Minister before any invitations are extended.

Marriage License

A marriage license must be obtained prior to the ceremony. The marriage license may be obtained at Service New Brunswick, 15 King Square North, telephone number 1 888-762-8600. Please ensure the license is delivered to the Minister at least two weeks before the ceremony so that the necessary documents can be prepared. Please note that Service New Brunswick will charge a fee for the license.

Music

All music for the ceremony must be appropriate for a Christian worship service and approved by the Minister. Recorded music, live performances, or the use of our piano or organ may be discussed during your planning meetings.

Decorations

You are welcome to add decorations to personalize your ceremony. However, any changes to the church sanctuary must be restored to their original placement immediately after the service. If you would like to leave flowers for Sunday worship, please inform the Minister in advance so that your gift can be recognized. Pew markers are to be attached with masking tape.

Photography and Videography

As the marriage ceremony is a sacred service, we encourage minimizing distractions during the ceremony. Photography and videography guidelines will be discussed between the couple, the Minister, and your photographer.

Additional Information

For inquiries about availability, fees, or other questions, please contact the church office for further details. We are here to support you not only on your wedding day but as you begin your journey together as a married couple.

Fees and Honorariums

Sanctuary - $200; off site location - $100
Minister Honorarium - $250

Organist - $150
Custodian Honorarium - $80
Sound Technician Honorarium - $80

We celebrate your decision to enter into this sacred covenant and pray for a lifetime of love and joy together. If there is anything we can do to support your preparations or your married life, please do not hesitate to reach out to the church office or the Minister.

May God’s love guide and sustain you always.