Weddings at Westmount Park United Church
We believe that a committed, caring relationship between two people is a sacred gift. It is to be recognized, blessed and celebrated. We believe that God intends people to have loving relationships with each other, which are just, faithful, healing, supportive, fun and life-giving.
If you are interested in celebrating your wedding in the beautiful traditional sanctuary of Westmount Park United Church, located at the south west corner of the park, please read the information below and contact Rev. Frank Giffen at 438-275-7961.
Do you have to be a member of Westmount Park United Church to be married here?
No, you don't have to be a member of the church, nor do you have to worship here. You don't have to have been baptized or be a Christian. We hope that you will be inspired by the spirit that is drawing you to be married in a Christian ceremony to explore the faith community that does worship here, by attending a service (Saturday afternoons 4:30).
Do you have to be Christian?
People of various faiths are married in this sanctuary, with the help of religious leaders of their own faith. The leader has to be licensed by the province to perform marriages, and the worship committee of the church has to approve all those who preside at marriages.
Can you be divorced?
In the United Church of Canada, there is no rule to prevent divorced people from being re-married. A copy of the divorce decree must be shown to the presiding religious leader before the ceremony can be performed.
Who officiates (presides) at the wedding?
The church will provide a United Church minister from the community to preside at your wedding. He or she may cooperate with someone that you recommend. As indicated above, a licensed religious leader who has been approved by the session of the church may also conduct the service.
How much does it cost?
The sanctuary costs $660 for a wedding rental. The minister's fee is $250 and includes a meeting to prepare the service and presiding at the service. This also includes a rehearsal before the
ceremony. There is $50 administration fee for the required provincial paper work and co-ordinating.
Music can be provided by the organist of your choice or we can recommend someone. The organist you choose must be able to play our Casavant organ and will need to speak with our organist first. Currently John Guzik is the organist at Westmount Park United Church. He charges $150 and will consult with you about your musical choices. At your wedding, he will play beautiful pipe organ.
Louise Yard, soprano soloist is also available to sing music of your choice. Her fee is also $150. You can also book your own soloist.
You are also free to make your own arrangements regarding music.
How much notice do we need?
Summer weekends fill up quickly, both for the space and for the available clergy. Please provide at least 6 weeks notice, and be prepared to change the date if necessary. Please do not print invitations until the date and time has been confirmed with a signed contract and a deposit.
Can you get married any day of the week?
If the sanctuary is available and the presider is free, you can make your vows at any time. Remember, however, that Westmount Park United Church is home to several active congregations, two of whom worship on Sundays and one late Saturday afternoon. The church is also home to an active senior's group and a nursery school, so you are unlikely to find the building completely empty at any time.
Can the sanctuary be decorated?
Decorations are welcomed, and the church has candelabra and occasional tables that can be used if you wish. You must make arrangements directly with your own florist. When you make your reservation, please be sure to tell us about what you will need, and leave time in your rental period to install and remove your decorative materials.We don't allow confetti or flower petals, inside or outside the church.
There is no carpeting on the main aisle leading to the altar. We don't provide any carpeting but do allow runners to be put down. The aisle measures: 64" x 45.4' but we recommend that you come to measure the aisle before renting any runners or carpeting.
