Pastor's Policy Statement For Weddings

Because of the numerous and varied requests our pastors receive to perform weddings, it is necessary to have a written policy concerning for whom we will or will not officiate a wedding. We do not expect all who read this policy to agree with every stand, but at least to understand that with this statement we are attempting to avoid both the misunderstandings and the arbitrariness which could arise. These guidelines apply to weddings at Grace Community Fellowship.

Furthermore, it is hoped that all who read this statement will appreciate our attempt to base convictions squarely upon God's Word, as well as our belief that each person also has the right and the responsibility to study and obey the Scriptures for himself or herself.

As pastors, we are more interested in establishing Christian homes than I am in simply officiating at weddings. In light of this, we have adopted the following guidelines:

1. Both the bride and groom must be Christians (2 Cor. 6:14). We believe it is important for both the bride & groom to be moving in the same spiritual direction.
2. The couple must agree to regular counseling, six sessions, at least a week apart (Prov. 12:15, 13:10, 19:20). Accepting advice from godly people about important life changing decisions demonstrates wisdom.
3. The couple attends or agrees to attend church regularly (Hebrews 10:25). Encouragement and accountability from a church family will strengthen homes.
4. Between the time we begin working with the couple and the time of the wedding, the couple must not live together and make a commitment to sexual purity. (1 Cor. 6:13,18; 10:8; Eph 5:3, 1 Thes. 4:3) God’s word is clear about the importance and benefits of sexual purity before marriage.
5. It also needs to be understood that no commitment to officiating a wedding will be made until we have met personally with the couple in a counseling session.

These guidelines are based upon personal conviction, but it is understood that situations arise in which some flexibility might be appropriate. The goal is to help couples get a good start in marriage and prepare a good foundation.

Reception Information

Reception Policies & Costs

Grace Community Fellowship is happy to have the opportunity to serve you as you prepare for your upcoming reception. We recognize that many hours of planning will be necessary before this important event takes place. In order for us to serve you better, we have provided this information and hope you find it helpful. Please read carefully!

Our building is available as early as 9:00 am, however it must be cleared by 5:00 pm on Saturdays otherwise there is a $200 fee for use until 10:00 pm in order to prepare for services on Sunday.

Reception – Basic Service

• $100 Custodian
• $100 Damage deposit (refundable)

Assuming no unusual circumstances, this amount covers the custodian and a $50 refundable damage deposit. Checks are to be made payable to the individual who performs the service the day of the reception. (Check with the office regarding whom to make the checks.) You are responsible for the set-up of table and chairs before and after the reception unless you hire a set up person.

Due to the layout of the building and space available, the recommended maximum number of people for a reception is 350.

Additional Services

• Sound person (required, if used): Fee varies depending on time required
• Set up person: $50 (payable to individual)

Decorations

You may check with the office staff regarding the date and time you wish to decorate for your reception. If you would like your decorations preserved after the reception, please designate someone to remove them. You are responsible to completely remove all your decorations and personal items from the building by the time you leave.

• Round tables (24 60” tables)
• Chairs
• Serving tables (three 8’ tables)
• Two punch bowls (there are no punch cups)
• Oak fireplace (7’ long, 4’ high, 18” deep)
• Oak podium
• Oak plant stands (4’ high)
• Artificial Ficus trees
• Various artificial plants

General Guidelines

• Sundays will not be available for receptions
• Building may be used until 5:00 PM on Saturday or, for $200 it may be used unto 10:00 PM.
• Alcoholic beverages in the building or outside the building are not permitted.
• No smoking in the building.
• No rice, confetti, birdseed, glitter, etc. in the building or outside the building.
• Anyone intending to use the building must secure and complete a Reception Reservation Form.
• Our auditorium piano may only be used by permission and must not be moved without permission.
• If you use rooms 100-102 for child care they must be put back in order.
• You must use dripless and/or hurricane lanterns to cover the candles.
• You are responsible to provide your own kitchen staff and to clean the kitchen when finished.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact the office.