We are delighted that you are interested in being married at Christ Episcopal Church! An exciting part of our ministry as clergy is to prepare couples for this occasion and to celebrate and bless their marriage. The Book of Common Prayer states, “Christian Marriage is a solemn and public covenant between a man and a woman in the presence of God. In the Episcopal Church it is required that one, at least, of the parties must be a baptized Christian; that the ceremony be attested by at least two witnesses; and that the marriage conform to the laws of the State of Virginia and the canons of this
Church” (BCP, p. 422). Christ Church asks that you observe some customs, traditions, and policies that serve as guidelines for all weddings performed here. Our Wedding Booklet, available at the church office, is a helpful way for us to communicate our understanding or our wedding customs, but do know that nothing is “set in stone” until all is given final approval by the priest who will be the Celebrant. After reading that booklet, the first step is to schedule a consultation with the clergy here at Christ Episcopal Church. We would be pleased to answer any questions that you may have.Remarriage is permitted in the Episcopal Church only after such a request has been made by the priest and approval granted by the Bishop.The Celebration and Blessing of your marriage is a Sacramental Rite in the life of the Church, “in which a woman and man enter into a life-long union, make their vows before God and the Church, and receive the grace and blessing of God to help them fulfill their vows” (BCP, p. 861). We trust that you have prayerfully considered entering into this holy union and we look forward to the possibility of sharing in the joy of such an occasion with you!
At Christ Episcopal Church, Baptisms are celebrated on Sunday Morning during the regularly scheduled Holy Eucharist. They are times of great joy where the congregation gathers to welcome the newly baptized. If you are interested in being baptized or if you have a child you wish to sponsor for baptism, please contact the Rector to make an appointment for baptismal instruction.
