Weddings

Christian Marriage: Blessing Holy Relationships


In the Episcopal Church marriage is a sacramental rite, and the commitment that two people make to each other in marriage is a sign of God’s love for the whole world. This commitment ideally entails life-long mutual fidelity, respect, and care for one another, nurtured in Christian community. At St. James, we honor and bless the commitment between same-gender and opposite-gender couples with equal joy and dignity, and we look forward to the day when all couples may enjoy the benefits and obligations of both sacramental and civil marriage.

Weddings are celebrated according to the form provided in the Book of Common Prayer, and in the rites for same-gender couples set forth by our Bishop. It is important to realize that a wedding is a worship service. The selection of readings, prayers and music is done in consultation with the clergy and parish musician.

Preparation for marriage consists of five or six meetings with one of the clergy to discuss the blessing, challenges and commitments of marriage. At least one person in the couple must be a baptized Christian, and normally it is expected that at least one of them will be an active member of St. James or another Christian church. Weddings generally are not celebrated during the season of Lent (the 40 days before Easter). Please contact the parish office at (415) 751-1198 or This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. for more information.