Most people choose to produce a dedicated order of service for their wedding. Here are some tips to make it easier.
You can download a word document with a basic Order of Service HERE. This is a basic template which you can adapt and make it your own.
Normally an Order of Service contains the following headings and information:
Prelude – [insert title and composer of any music playing as your guests arrive]
Entrance of the Bride to [insert title and composer of music]
Welcome
Hymn [insert title and composer’s name]
Preface
The Declarations
Will you, the families and friends of [bride name] and [groom name],
support and uphold them in their marriage
now and in the years to come?
All: We will.
The Marriage
Hymn/Song (optional*) [insert title and composer’s name]
Readings
Usually two readings and at least one must be from the Holy Bible
Sermon
Hymn/Song (optional*)
Prayers concluding with the Lords Prayer:
Our Father in heaven,
hallowed be your name,
your kingdom come,
your will be done,
on earth as in heaven.
Give us today our daily bread.
Forgive us our sins
as we forgive those who sin against us.
Lead us not into temptation
but deliver us from evil.
For the kingdom, the power,
and the glory are yours
now and for ever.
Amen.
Hymn/Song (optional*) [insert title and composer’s name]
Signing of the Register [insert title and composer of music to be played]
The Blessing and Dismissal
Exit of Bridal Party [insert title and composer of music to be played]
Musical Copyright
Permission to reproduce copyright music and words must always be obtained. You will need to print in your Order of Service the following information:
- title, author, owner of copyright if applicable for each hymn/song.
- the phrase “Words for the above hymns/songs are reproduced with permission under CCL 518890” (for St James) or CCL 5841 (for Emmanuel)It is sufficient to print the CCL information discreetly at the end of your Order of Service.
It is sufficient to print the CCL information discreetly at the end of your Order of Service.
* A typical wedding service normally contains two or sometimes three hymns. There are a number of optional positions where the second or third hymn may be placed. You might like to discuss these options with a member of the clergy team.
Next: Readings
