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Trouble getting officiant to perform Christian wedding since groom is divorced

kjamoca
New User

Post #1 of 4 (5844 views)

Trouble getting officiant to perform Christian wedding since groom is divorced

It is my first marriage and his second. We are both devoted Christians and are having a hard time finding anyone to marry us because he has been divorced before. Our church's pastors won't. I need some advice and how to start looking for other officiants. Do I simply call church offices and ask? It seems weird to just cold call. Where do I start? Are there some denominations which are traditionally less conservative and more lenient to a variety of marriages? Thanks for the advice. We really feel like we're in a jam!

(This post was edited by the_admin on Jun 13, 2008, 5:19 PM)

the_admin
Remarriage Forum Moderator / Moderator

Post #2 of 4 (5835 views)

Re: [kjamoca] help! we need an officiant [In reply to]

Try this book:

Joining Hands and Hearts: Interfaith, Intercultural Wedding Celebrations: A Practical Guide for Couples
I Do - Take Two Moderator

RevSusanna
INTERFAITH MINISTER & AUTHOR / Moderator

Post #3 of 4 (5830 views)

Re: [kjamoca] help! we need an officiant [In reply to]

If you are Catholic, I would recommend that you call your local Episcopal Church/es. It is closest in feeling to the Catholic Chruch and a home for many divorced Catholics. Do not be afraid to call and speak to the pastor, they are use to it! Unitarian Universalist Churches welcomes people of all denominations. In speaking with a Unitarian minister it would be best to identify the kind of ceremony you are looking for. You can call the mother church at 617-742-2100 to find a UU church in your area or go to their web site. There are other denominations that would welcome you as well. So, be at peace. Is there a particular denomination or church that draws you? You may begin there. Or let your fingers do the walking. Some pastors would require that you join their congregations. Others DO NOT. You can simply pay a donation for the use of the church and the minister's fee. Some will be willing to travel to your wedding site for an extra travel fee, some will not.

Follow your heart, and speak from your heart.

The right solution will make itself manifest. Don't settle.

Prayers for a lifetime of happiness for you and your beloved...

Rev. Susanna Stefanachi Macomb

author of Joining Hands and Hearts

www.susannamacomb.com
Reverend Susanna
Joining Hands and Hearts: Interfaith, Intercultural Wedding Celebrations : A Practical Guide for Couples

RevFrye
NonDenominational Minister

Post #4 of 4 (5828 views)

Re: [kjamoca] help! we need an officiant [In reply to]

Unfortunately, many congregations place restrictions on their clergy that limit their ability to serve the community. However, not all clergy are restricted in serving people outside of the congregation. If you let me know the city and State in which you are planning to celebrate your wedding, I may be able to refer you to someone that meets your expectations. You can email me directly at revfrye@serviceministries.org.
Reverend Frye
http://www.serviceministries.org