The Sacrament of Holy Matrimony
The Episcopal Church understands marriage as a sacred rite in which two persons 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.
Mutual Joy
The union is intended by God for the couple's mutual joy, and for the help and comfort given one another in prosperity and adversity.
Community Witness
The congregation witnesses the couple's promises and pledges to do all in their power to uphold the couple in their marriage.
Sacred Vows
Both persons promise to love, comfort, honor, and keep their spouse, in sickness and in health, forsaking all others.
"The union is understood to be intended by God for their mutual joy; for the help and comfort given one another in prosperity and adversity; and, when it is God's will, for the procreation of children and their nurture in the knowledge and love of the Lord."
Requirements & Preparation
Church Requirements
- At least one of the parties must be a baptized Christian
- The ceremony must be attested by at least two witnesses
- The marriage must conform to the laws of the State of California and the canons of the church
- If either party has been previously married and divorced, the consent of the diocesan bishop must be obtained prior to the ceremony
Pre-Marital Preparation
- The officiating clergy will meet with the couple on several occasions prior to the service
- Sessions are designed to discuss the meaning of Christian marriage in the couple's life
- California residents must apply for a marriage license at the County Clerk's office in the county where one party resides
- Rings or other appropriate symbols of the vows may be used during the Marriage rite
Fees & Contributions
All fees and contributions are to be delivered to the clergy at the time of the rehearsal. The clergy will distribute them to the appropriate parties.
Members
Active members of St. John's Church in good standing and who are contributors of record for at least six months prior to the wedding date.
| Altar Guild
Payable to St. John's (memo: Altar Guild) |
$100.00 |
| Music / Organist
Check payable to the organist by name |
$200.00 |
| Total | $300.00 |
Non-Contributing Members
Those who are not contributors of record for at least six months prior to the wedding date.
| Altar Guild
Payable to St. John's (memo: Altar Guild) |
$100.00 |
| Music / Organist
Check payable to the organist by name |
$200.00 |
| Clergy
Payable to St. John's (memo: Discretionary Fund) |
$200.00 |
| Use of Church Facilities
Payable to St. John's |
$400.00 |
| Total | $900.00 |
Begin Your Journey Together
We would be honored to celebrate your wedding at St. John the Baptist Episcopal Church. Please contact the church office to begin the conversation and schedule your pre-marital sessions.
526 Magnolia Avenue, Corona, CA 92879
