Weddings
If you’re considering getting married at St Andrew’s, many congratulations on your engagement! Weddings are always a joy, and we would be honoured to share in such an important moment in your life.
In general, as long as the legal requirements are met (see below), you are welcome to marry in a Church of England church. This is the case regardless of your personal beliefs, whether you’ve been baptised, or how often you attend church. St Andrew’s is here to support you, and you will be warmly welcomed.
If you’re unsure whether St Andrew’s is the right place for your wedding, the guidance below should help clarify things.
You are entitled to marry in your local parish church if you live within the parish. Alternatively, you may still be able to marry at St Andrew’s if you can demonstrate a meaningful connection, as outlined by Church of England guidelines.
This could apply if one of you:
was baptised in the parish,
prepared for confirmation here,
has lived in the parish for at least six months at any point, or
has attended regular services here for at least six months and is listed on the church electoral roll*,
It may also apply if one of your parents, at any time after your birth:
lived in the parish for six months or more, or
regularly attended services here for at least six months and was on the electoral roll*,
Or if a parent or grandparent of either of you:
was married in the parish.
* The electoral roll is the church’s register of regular worshippers. You can be added to it after attending services consistently for a minimum of six months.
Please note that references to church services—such as baptisms, confirmations, or regular attendance—relate specifically to services within the Church of England.
If you have been married before
The Church understands that relationships can end for many different reasons, often involving difficult circumstances. If one or both of you have been divorced, it may still be possible to be married at St Andrew’s.
In these situations, you would be invited to meet with a member of the clergy, usually the Rector. This is an opportunity to talk through your past experience and your hopes for your future together, in a supportive and understanding setting.
For further guidance and ideas as you plan your wedding, the Church of England’s official wedding website offers a wide range of helpful resources. Click here .
Enquiries for weddings can be made to the Parish Office at 01903 700547 | parishoffice@standrewwesttarring.co.uk or Fr Steven at rectormaybridgetarring@gmail.com