WEDDINGS AT ST MICHAEL’S

Including

 Services of Prayer and Dedication after Civil Marriage

Introduction

St Michael’s is the focal point for the English speaking Christian community (both permanent residents and visitors) in the corner of the Riviera that includes Beaulieu, St Jean Cap Ferrat, Eze, Villefranche and Cap d’Ail.  Many couples choose to marry or to hold a service of dedication at St Michael’s.

It is normal that members of that community should want to celebrate their marriage at St Michael’s. Others also come because the church is very beautiful, situated in a privileged corner of the Cote d’Azur and with easy access to many favourite locations for wedding receptions.

This part of our website aims to help couples who are considering this to decide whether a celebration at St Michael’s will be appropriate for them and to answer some of the questions that often arise.

Should we get married at St Michael’s just because it is such a romantic setting?

No. We do ask couples to have some serious reason for their choice of St Michael’s and indeed for wanting a Christian Marriage, a life-long commitment blessed by God.

Are the laws concerning a Church wedding the same in France as in England?

French law requires that any church wedding in France MUST be preceded by a Civil Marriage – either in France, in the United Kingdom or wherever. The certificate of Civil marriage MUST be shown to the priest before the church ceremony. There is no calling of banns in France.

Can we ask the priest to celebrate our marriage in an hotel or in a garden?

The marriage must take place in the church, unless one of you is in hospital or in prison!

Can we get married at St Michael’s.......

................if neither of us has been baptised?

If neither has been baptised the ceremony cannot take place in church.

................if one partner only is baptised?

It is possible; however the Bishop’s special permission must be sought and given (in writing) before a final decision can be made.

................if one or both of us have been divorced?

Each case must be examined separately. If a ceremony does take place in church it will usually be the Service of Prayer and Dedication after a Civil Marriage rather than The Marriage Service.

................if one partner is a Roman Catholic (or a member of another Christian Church)?

Yes – but he or she is strongly encouraged to consult a priest or minister of the Church concerned. An Inter-Church ceremony may be the best solution.

................if one of us is French-speaking?

Yes; a bilingual ceremony is possible. Our current Chaplain speaks French.