God created us male and female, and gave us marriage so that husband and wife may help and comfort each other, living faithfully together in plenty and in want, in joy and in sorrow, in sickness and in health, throughout all their days.

God gave us marriage for the full express of the love between a man and a woman. In marriage a woman and a man belong to each other, and with affection and tenderness freely give themselves to each other.

God gave us marriage for the well-being of human society, for the ordering of family life, and for the birth and nurture of children.

God gave us marriage as a holy mystery in which a man and a woman are joined together, and become one, just as Christ is one with the church.

In marriage, husband and wife are called to a new way of life, created, ordered and blessed by God. It is to be lived prayerfully, and in joyful obedience to Christ. We rejoice that marriage is given by God, blessed by our Lord Jesus Christ, and sustained by the Holy Spirit.

 

 

Arrangements for a wedding begin by calling the church office at (219)736-0707. Wedding Coordinator, Carolyn Meinbresse, will schedule an appointment with Rev. Paul Anderson. Date and time of your wedding is set after the meeting with the pastor, wedding information sheets have been completed and a deposit has been made to hold the date.

 

Please note that all discussions on arrangements need to be made with Carolyn who is Wedding Coordinator for the church. Telephone calls to the Pastor are not acceptable.

 

All wedding ceremonies are presided over by Rev. Paul R. Anderson, Pastor.  There are no exceptions to this rule.  At the discretion of Rev. Anderson, other Pastors may participate in the wedding ceremony.

 

The couple will visit with Rev. Paul Anderson to discuss readings for marriage, the marriage service, and all other necessary arrangements.

The Christian marriage ceremony is a service of worship before God, usually conducted in our sanctuary. Joy and reverence are expected on the part of all present, and the service shall be under the sole direction of the minister. The minister reserves the right of final decision as to any service elements and guest clergy.

Although weddings are normally conducted in the sanctuary, arrangements can be made to have a wedding in a garden, at home, or other suitable locale. (Note: Additional compensation for mileage and time must be agreed on by Rev. Anderson.)

It is important to note that the marriage ceremony serves not only the couple in their marriage, but also others who are present. The service provides opportunities for all to remember promises they had made and to recommit themselves to those promises. The statements about marriage, the lessons from Scripture, and the prayers remind the congregation of their mission to all families and challenge the people to exercise their responsibilities for mutual support and care.

Congregational singing is encouraged.

The minister will assist the couple in obtaining an organist. The music chosen must be appropriate for use in worship; hymns for congregational participation and a soloist(s) are an option. Secular music is not suitable for use with the wedding service, but it may be used prior to the service as guests are being seated.

Flowers for decorating the sanctuary do not need to be elaborate. It is best to work with your florist for your desired decorations. A unity candle does not have specific religious significance, and is optional. If you desire a unity candle, you must provide it. If you wish to have an aisle runner, your florist will provide one. The aisle is 75’ long. If you desire additional decorations, please check with the church office.

Since the wedding ceremony is a worship service, flash photography IS NOT PERMITTED. The official photographer may take photographs as the wedding party is coming into and leaving the sanctuary – all other flash photography should be taken prior to or after the ceremony. It is acceptable for the photographer to take non-flash pictures from the back of the sanctuary.

There will be no more than two video cameras used to tape the wedding. The preferred placement of cameras is one on a tripod in the rear of the sanctuary and one held by an operator seated about halfway up the aisle at the end of a pew. THE VIDEOGRAPHER IS NOT TO MOVE AROUND THE SANCTUARY DURING THE CEREMONY.

The rehearsal is the time for everyone in the wedding party to practice his/her part and to know exactly what s/he will do during the ceremony. The rehearsal is usually held the evening preceding the wedding. It is most important that everyone involved in the wedding party, including parents, be present. Ring bearers and flower girls must be at least five years of age. It is very important that everyone arrive on time.

The marriage license should be given to the minister prior to the rehearsal. All fees should be paid at the time of the rehearsal.

It is customary for receiving lines to take place at the reception due to picture-taking and time constraints. If you wish to have a receiving line at the church, please consult with the minister.

 

An elevator is available for guests needing assistance to the sanctuary. Please make sure the minister is aware of your needs

Arrangements for your reception can be made at the same time you reserve the church for your wedding. The Fellowship Hall is available for receptions for 100 guests or less. An additional fee is required, and you must provide your own catering. Alcoholic beverages are not permitted on the church premises and the church is a smoke-free environment.

            Sanctuary - Rehearsal                         $150.00 

 

A deposit of $300.00 is needed to reserve the day and time of the wedding.  This deposit will be refunded after the wedding date depending on the condition and use of the facility. 

 

 

 

 

Wedding: Date__________ Time________     Rehearsal: Date__________     Time________

 

Bride’s FULL Name___________________________________________________________

 

            Address_______________________________________________________________

            Phone No. ___________________________

 

Groom’s FULL Name__________________________________________________________

 

            Address_______________________________________________________________

            Phone No. ___________________________

 

Brides’s Parents Names:                                             Groom’s Parents Names:

Father_________________________________        ____________________________________

Mother________________________________        ____________________________________

Her Attendants & relationship to couple (such as “Sister of Bride), (Maid of Honor First)

1.      ________________________________________________________________________

      2.   ________________________________________________________________________

      3.   ________________________________________________________________________

      4.   ________________________________________________________________________

His Attendants  (Best Man First)

1.      ________________________________________________________________________

      2.   ________________________________________________________________________

      3.   ________________________________________________________________________

      4.   ________________________________________________________________________

The minister calls the people to worship, either before or after the entrance, using one of the following, or

another appropriate verse from scripture.

God is love, and those who abide in love, abide in God, and God abides in them.

 

                                                                                                Psalm 118:24

This is the day that the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it.

O give thanks, for the Lord is good. God's love endures forever.

We gather in the presence of God

to give thanks for the gift of marriage,

to witness the joining together of N. and N.,

to surround them with our prayers,

and to ask God's blessing upon them,

so that they may be strengthened for their life together

and nurtured in their love for God.

 

God created us male and female,

and gave us marriage

so that husband and wife may help and comfort each other,

living faithfully together in plenty and in want,

in joy and in sorrow,

in sickness and in health,

throughout all their days.

 

God gave us marriage

for the full expression of the love between a man and a woman.

In marriage a woman and a man belong to each other,

and with affection and tenderness

freely give themselves to each other.

 

 

God gave us marriage

for the well-being of human society,

for the ordering of family life,

and for the birth and nurture of children.

 

God gave us marriage as a holy mystery

in which a man and a woman are joined together,

and become one,

just as Christ is one with the church.

In marriage, husband and wife are called to a new way of life,

created, ordered, and blessed by God.

 

This way of life must not be entered into carelessly,

or from selfish motives,

but responsibly, and prayerfully.

We rejoice that marriage is given by God,

blessed by our Lord Jesus Christ,

and sustained by the Holy Spirit.

Therefore, let marriage be held in honor by all.

 

 

Let us pray:

Gracious God,

you are always faithful in your love for us.

Look mercifully upon N. and N.,

who have come seeking your blessing.

Let your Holy Spirit rest upon them

so that with steadfast love

they may honor the promises they make this day,

through Jesus Christ our Savior. Amen.

 

 

The minister addresses the bride and groom individually, using either A or B:

N., understanding that God has created, ordered, and blessed the covenant of marriage,

do you affirm your desire and intention to enter this covenant?

Answer:

If both are baptized, the following may be used:

N., in your baptism you have been called to union with Christ and the church.

Do you intend to honor this calling

through the covenant of marriage?

Answer:

The minister may address the families of the bride and groom:

N., N. [Names of family members],

do you give your blessing to N. and N.,

and promise to do everything in your power to uphold them in their marriage?

The families of the bride and groom answer:

Or

The families of the bride and groom may be seated.

The minister may address the congregation, saying:

Will all of you witnessing these vows

do everything in your power

to uphold N. and N. in their marriage?

Answer:

A psalm, hymn, spiritual, or anthem may be sung.

God of mercy,

your faithfulness to your covenant frees us to live together

in the security of your powerful love.

Amid all the changing words of our generation, speak your eternal Word that does not change.

Then may we respond to your gracious promises by living in faith and obedience;

through our Lord Jesus Christ. Amen.

 

 

 

N. and N.,

since it is your intention to marry,

join your right hands,

and with your promises

bind yourselves to each other as husband and wife.

 

 

 

 

 

What do you bring as the sign of your promise?

When the rings are presented, the minister may say the following prayer.

By your blessing, O God,

may these rings be to N. and N.

symbols of unending love and faithfulness,

reminding them of the covenant they have made this day,

through Jesus Christ our Lord. [793]

 

 

 

 

 

Let us pray:

Eternal God,

Creator and preserver of all life, author of salvation, and giver of all grace:

look with favor upon the world you have made and redeemed,

and especially upon N. and N.

 

Give them wisdom and devotion in their common life,

that each may be to the other a strength in need, a counselor in perplexity,

a comfort in sorrow, and a companion in joy.

 

Grant that their wills may be so knit together in your will,

and their spirits in your Spirit, that they may grow in love and peace

with you and each other all the days of their life.

 

Give them the grace,

when they hurt each other, to recognize and confess their fault,

and to seek each other's forgiveness and yours.

 

 

Make their life together a sign of Christ's love

to this sinful and broken world, that unity may overcome estrangement,

forgiveness heal guilt, and joy conquer despair.

 

Give them such fulfillment of their mutual love

that they may reach out in concern for others.

 

[Give to them, if it is your will, the gift of children,

and the wisdom to bring them up to know you, to love you, and to serve you.]

 

Grant that all who have witnessed these vows today may find their lives strengthened,

and that all who are married may depart with their own promises renewed.

 

Enrich with your grace all husbands and wives, parents and children,

that, loving and supporting one another, they may serve those in need

and be a sign of your kingdom.

 

Grant that the bonds by which all your children are united to one another

may be so transformed by your Spirit that your peace and justice may fill the earth,

through Jesus Christ our Lord.   Amen.

Eternal God,

without your grace no promise is sure.

Strengthen N. and N.

with patience, kindness, gentleness,

and all other gifts of your Spirit,

so that they may fulfill the vows they have made.

Keep them faithful to each other and to you.

Fill them with such love and joy

that they may build a home of peace and welcome.

Guide them by your Word

to serve you all their days.

Help us all, O God,

to do your will in each of our homes and lives.

Enrich us with your grace

so that, supporting one another,

we may serve those in need

and hasten the coming of peace, love, and justice on earth,

through Jesus Christ our Lord.  Amen.

Our Father, who art in heaven,

hallowed be thy name,

thy kingdom come,

thy will be done,

on earth as it is in heaven.

Give us this day our daily bread;

and forgive us our debts,

as we forgive our debtors;

and lead us not into temptation,

but deliver us from evil.

For thine is the kingdom,

and the power, and the glory,

forever. Amen.

Before God

and in the presence of this congregation,

N. and N. have made their solemn vows to each other.

They have confirmed their promises by the joining of hands

[and by the giving and receiving of rings].

Therefore, I proclaim that they are now husband and wife.

Blessed be the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit now and forever.

 

 

Those whom God has joined together

let no one separate.

 

As God's own,

clothe yourselves with compassion,

kindness, and patience,

forgiving each other

as the Lord has forgiven you,

and crown all these things with love,

which binds everything together in perfect harmony.

Whatever you do, in word or deed,

do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus,

giving thanks to God through him.

 

Blessing

The Lord bless you and keep you.

The Lord be kind and gracious to you.

The Lord look upon you with favor

and give you peace.

The grace of Christ attend you,

the love of God surround you,

the Holy Spirit keep you,

that you may live in faith,

abound in hope,

and grow in love,

both now and forevermore.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Hear is a place to begin. 

            At the opening we could have your Father present you.

                        Who gives this women in marriage?

 

            Note: Prayers look longer when seen written.

 

Affirmations of Families and Congregation are optional but it is there with the clear understanding that a marriage needs to be help in honor by all.

 

 

The Scripture is your choice…the list is just suggestive, traditionally there are at least 3 lessons: Old Testament, Epistle and Gospel.

 

 

Note: A wedding is the public celebration and statement that the two of you have vowed to each other in a loving embrace.

 

Take a look nothing is set in stone. It is your wedding, blessing on your life together.

 

 

 

 

 

Gen. 1:26-31               Humankind created in the image of God

Gen. 2:18-25               Bone of my bones and flesh of my flesh

Song of Sol. 8:6-7       Set me as a seal upon your heart

Prov. 3:3-6                  Trust the Lord with all your heart

Isa. 54:5-8                   Your Maker is your husband

Jer. 31:31-34               The Lord will make a new covenant

Ps. 8                            Mortals crowned with glory and honor

Ps. 67                          May God be gracious to us

Ps. 95:1-7                    O come, let us sing to the Lord

Ps. 100                        Make a joyful noise to the Lord

Ps. 103:1-5, 15-18       Bless the Lord, O my soul

Ps. 117                        Great is God's steadfast love

Ps. 121                        Lift up my eyes to the hills

Ps. 128                        Happy is everyone who fears the Lord

Ps. 136:1-9, 26            O give thanks, for God is good

Ps. 145                        I will exalt you, O God my King

Ps. 148                        Praise the Lord

Ps. 150                        Everything that breathes praise the Lord

Rom. 12:1-2, 9-18       A living sacrifice . . . let love be genuine

1 Cor. 13:1-13             Faith, hope, love . . . greatest is love

Col. 3:12-17                Clothe yourselves with love

1 John 4:7-12              Let us love one another . . . God is love

Rev. 19:1, 5-9                         Rejoicing at the marriage of the Lamb

Matt. 5:1-10                The Beatitudes

Matt. 5:13-16              Salt of the earth . . . light of the world

Matt. 19:3-6                No longer two, but one flesh

Matt. 22:35-40            Love the Lord with all your heart, soul, mind

Mark 10:6-9                What God has joined, let no one separate

John 2:1-11                 The wedding at Cana

John 15:1-17               Jesus, the true vine

 

 

 

I N. take thee N.                                                                                                                      to be my wedded wife,                                                                                                          to have and to hold from this day forward,                                                                          for better for worse, for richer for poorer,                                                                               in sickness and in health, to love and to cherish,                                                                   till death do us part, according to God's holy ordinance;                                                        and thereto I give thee my troth.

I N. take thee N. to be my wedded husband,                                                                                  to have and to hold from this day forward,                                                                                for better for worse, for richer for poorer,                                                                                  in sickness and in health, to love and to cherish,                                                                   till death do us part, according to God's holy ordinance;                                                       and thereto I give thee my troth.

SANCTIFY, O Lord, this ring                                                                                          that it may be to these thy servants                                                                                              a token of their solemn vows and a pledge of pure and endless love;                         through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

WITH this ring I thee wed,                                                                                             with my body I thee honour, and all my worldly goods with thee I share:                       In the Name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost. Amen.