Welcome to Central Presbyterian Church!
Located in historic Petersburg, Illinois
Weddings
Marriage is a gift God has given to all humankind for the well-being of the entire human family. Marriage involves a unique commitment between two people to love and support each other for the rest of their lives. The sacrificial love that unites the couple sustains them as faithful and responsible members of the church and the wider community.
Couples who are willing to approach their wedding with the understanding that
marriage is an act of Christian discipleship and to undergo a discernment process
with the pastor or other counselor may apply for marriage at Central Presbyterian
Church. Both members and non-members of Central Presbyterian Church may apply.
Who Can Get Married at Central Presbyterian Church
Discernment Process
The discernment process may begin as early as one year, but no later than four months, prior to a proposed marriage date.
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Those wishing to begin the process of discernment must first complete an application. When the application papers are returned to the church office a tentative date for the wedding may be placed on the church calendar. This date should not be publicized, nor should invitations be sent until the discernment process is completed and the pastor’s approval has been given.
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The couple meets with the pastor of Central Presbyterian Church.
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The pastor may refer the couple to a counselor to help the couple prepare for marriage, or the pastor may conduct the counseling. If the counseling is not conducted by the pastor, the couple must give permission for the counselor to provide a report to the pastor.
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The couple meets again with the pastor. If the pastor is convinced of the couple’s commitment, responsibility, maturity, and Christian understanding, he/she may approve the marriage. If the pastor deems the marriage unwise he/she shall assure the couple of the Church’s continuing concern for them and not conduct the ceremony.
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If the pastor approves the marriage, the wedding date is confirmed on the church calendar.
The Marriage: The Service of Worship
Christian marriage should be celebrated in the place where the community gathers for worship. As a service of Christian worship, the marriage service is under the direction of the pastor. With the approval of the session, the Lord’s Supper may be celebrated during the marriage service, and the invitation to the Table will be given to all present.
Fees and Honoraria
The conducting of weddings for church members is an expression of the pastor's ministry to the congregation. No honorarium is desired or expected from church members. A suggested honorarium from non-members is $150.00. This is not a fee for services, and no couple shall be denied the services of the pastor because of inability to give an honorarium.