In our tradition, marriage is one of the seven Sacraments.  A sacrament is a sign or an act of God's love which touches us as we are.  Perhaps the question you ought to ask your self is:  "Should I get married in the Church?"

Marriage is probably the most important undertaking of your life.  Since this decision affects both State and Church, there are certain requirements to be fulfilled.  
If you are thinking that you would like the ceremony to take place at St James's Church, we take bookings for the church, send you a letter listing all the requirements, paperwork and time line and then, when you have received all of this and decide to go ahead with us, you simply confirm that booking with a deposit.

The priest will assist you to prepare your own individual celebration ... choosing readings, prayers, blessings, marriage vows etc.

There are two possible celebrations:

1.  Nuptial Mass, ie, the ceremony of marriage within a Mass offered with and for a couple.  The assumption is that a couple requests it because Mass is important to them and they intend to make Mass attendance a part of their family life.  This importance is, of course, obvious and easily proven because they have been faithful to their worship with their parish community.

2.  Marriage Ceremony, ie, the celebration within a Scripture-Prayer Service.  This is strongly recommended where church going has not been a part of a person's formative years or where a Catholic is marrying a person from another tradition.

 

Times may be arranged for any day except Sundays, Good Friday and Holy Saturday.  On Saturdays,  the latest starting time is 4:00pm.

Two witnesses, over the age of 18, to sign the documents, are required by law.

Your choice of music should reflect and support the religious nature of the ceremony and be approved by the officiating priest.  Songs that do not display the basic character of Christian love, that is, the self-giving which goes beyond the physical and emotional level, are inappropriate.

There is a number of musicians and vocalists with whom you may wish to be put in contact.  It is preferable not to use taped music for such an occasion.

These should never be allowed to detract in any way from the religious nature of the event.  Photographers and video operators are requested to consult with the priest before the ceremony.

Confetti or rice may not be used in the church or the grounds.

It is customary to make a financial offering in consideration of such things as use of the church and time spent by the priest which is considerable.  In making a decision, you could, perhaps, bear in mind the amount you are otherwise spending on your wedding and maybe compare with what would be charged by a civil celebrant.