You do not have to be members of First Parish Church Duxbury to be married here.
No. You do not need to practice Unitarian Universalism to be married here. But, it is important for you to know and learn about the Church and the Minister. The Minister will introduce you to our religious tradition in the initial conference and provide introductory literature.
If there has been a previous marriage we will discuss it and its meaning for the new marriage. It will not affect your ability to be married at First Parish Church.
Yes, we do ask that you request permission of our Minister before bringing another member of the clergy to perform the service at the Church.
Again, permission of the Minister is required; but this is usually possible.
At minimum, we request that each couple participate in the following meetings prior to the wedding service:
1. An initial exploratory meeting with the Minister. We will get to know each other and outline the wedding service. You will be asked to read, discuss and evaluate several different wedding texts before the second meeting.
2. A second meeting with the Minister. We will discuss the text and deal with any other issues that come up.
3. The rehearsal. Usually, but not necessarily, the day before the wedding, during the day. All participants in the service, including ushers, should be present. Occasionally in the case of a very small and simple wedding, the rehearsal may be omitted.