At First Presbyterian Church of Wilmette, weddings are occasions of both joy and reverence – joy because of the gifts of love and happiness that two people have found in each other, and reverence because of the deep commitment they have made to live out their vows under the grace of God. The staff of First Pres is eager to help make your wedding a lovely and meaningful event and asks your careful attention to our guidelines. The Constitution of the Presbyterian Church (USA) includes the following principals regarding marriage and weddings in the church:
Marriage is a gift God has given to all humankind for the well-being of the entire human family. Marriage is a civil contract . . . for Christians, marriage is a covenant . . . before God to live out together their lives of discipleship. In a service of Christian marriage, a lifelong commitment is made, publicly witnessed and acknowledged by the community of faith.
The Christian marriage ceremony is a service of worship before God, normally conducted within the church. Dignity will be expected on the part of all present, and the service shall be under the direction of the presiding minister. The wedding service will be conducted according to the liturgy found in the Presbyterian Book of Common Worship. It is appropriate for the service to include special music, hymns, Scripture readings, and a brief homily by the minister. The presiding minister will review the order of service and appropriate options with the couple.
Because the wedding service is an act of worship, music should be sacred and appropriate for worship. The couple will arrange a time to meet with the organist and choose appropriate music for their service. The organist can make arrangements for vocal soloists and other instrumentalists if requested. An additional fee will be charged for soloists and instrumentalists.
Finally, please remember that First Presbyterian Church is your continuing “church home” after your marriage – a place to seek God’s Spirit and truth through worship, education, friendship and service to others. We wish you every joy and blessing.
Please click for more wedding information/policy terms and fee schedule.
Contact the church office to make an appointment to speak to a pastor or the Director of Worship and Music, Peggy Massello, who is also the organist!
