Category: FAQs

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FAQs

Who is involved in a Christian wedding?

The minimum number of people that can attend a legal wedding ceremony (Civil or Religious) is 5 people. The Celebrant, The couple and two witnesses. A witness can be anyone who is over 18 years of age and is mentally competant.

Most weddings are a glorious celebration of one of the most meaningful days in the life of the two getting married. So, inviting your close family and friends is very special. As a couple you want to share your promises of marriage before Almighty God and also before witnesses who are family and friends. The reason is, that you want your word to be your bond. What you promise before many witnesses means that you want the world to know, “I want this person to be my partner for the rest of my life”

The people at the ceremony who are your closest loved ones will witness the truth about your intention and promises, but also, they will be there to help you maintain that bond if the going gets tough. The number of people invited will depend on costs and how much you want to spend, but apart from that, its about inviting those who love you and believe in you. What a day you’re going to have!

Having family and friends around you is very special

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Who officiates Christian marriage?

In Australia most Church denominations register their clergy members as officially recognised wedding celebrants. Being a celebrant or officiant (same thing) means the clergy person has a complete understanding of the Marriage Law in Australia and is recognised by the Federal Government and registered with the state Births Deaths and Marriages department as someone who is legally allowed to conduct a marriage ceremony and register it with the state department. (https://www8.austlii.edu.au/cgi-bin/viewdb/au/legis/cth/consol_act/ma196185/)

There are many forms that must be filled out to complete the marriage process. The first one called Notice of Intended Marriage which must be completed, signed and witnessed a month and a day or more before the marriage ceremony can take place. (https://www.ag.gov.au/families-and-marriage/publications/notice-intended-marriage)

The final form to fill out is the official marriage certificate
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What is a Christian Celebrant?

A Christian Celebrant is a person who has the legal right and authority to perform and register a marriage in Australia and also is a person who has a genuine Christian Faith and can offer couples a very meaningful Christian Ceremony that truly reflects their values.

The things that the Christian Celebrant can offer (that I offer anyway) are:

  1. An introduction that clearly explains what a Chrisian marriage really is, as found in many bible verses – for example Ephesians 5: 22-33.
  2. Lots of scripture readings that can add meaning to the ceremony for example – 1 Corinthians 13:4-8. (I also offer many other readings that can add real special thoughts and ideas to enhance the value of the ceremony)
  3. An opening prayer that asks God to bless the ceremony with His presence and grace.
  4. A prayer over the couple just after the “You may kiss the bride” moment, asking God to join your lives together as per the verse in Genesis 2:24 – “the two shall become one.”