Weddings are one of the joys of being a minister. We never forget that your wedding day is the best day of your life! Having a pastor perform your ceremony adds a distinct element to your wedding - faith. It’s giving expression to the fact that spirituality is part of your individual lives, and you desire to make it an important part of your marriage.

Ministers add spirituality to a wedding ceremony by offering prayer, sharing a passage or two from scripture and simply reminding us that God is the source of all love in the universe. This awareness brings joy, depth and beauty to the occasion.

Most pastors will marry folks who are not members of their church, and we strive to do so with an open, ecumenical and inclusive spirit. York has a variety of churches to choose from - Cape Neddick Baptist Church, St. George’s Episcopal Church, York Street Baptist Church, the York/Ogunquit United Methodist Church. St. Christopher’s Catholic Church, Trinity Episcopal Church, Union Congregational Church, and the church where I serve, First Parish Congregational Church. A simple call to the church office will inform you about your wedding possibilities. Visiting Sunday morning worship, however, is the best way to get a feel for the church and its pastor.

Ministers will often do services outside of the church. Again, York has many options to choose from - the beach, the Nubble Lighthouse, various parks and special spots at area restaurants and inns. If you desire to have your ceremony outside it’s wise to have a back-up plan in the unlikely event of rain. You also might want to think about setting up some chairs for those who might need them.

You may wish to have music at your ceremony, both instrumental music  (for the processional and the recessional) and a vocal soloist. York is fortunate to have many fine soloists in town that can add another touch of beauty and inspiration to your wedding. It’s easier to have such special music at indoor ceremonies, but it is certainly also possible at outdoor weddings as well.

Blessings of joy to you as you make your plans to walk into the future together as husband and wife!

            Rev. Rich Knight, Sr. Pastor
            First Parish Church, York, Maine