How does the Church of England understand marriage?
Marriage is a public, lifelong covenant between one man and one woman, made before God and the congregation with freely given consent and solemn vows. It is given for the couple’s mutual love and support, for a faithful and exclusive partnership of their whole life, and, where God gives it, for the procreation and nurture of children. It is also given as a remedy against sin, providing a faithful discipline in which desire is ordered to love and fidelity, and in which each helps the other grow in holiness.
Marriage is commonly called a sacrament: an outward sign of God’s grace at work in a couple’s life, blessed in prayer and witnessed by the Church.
If you are thinking of marrying in church, you might find it helpful to learn more about Church of England weddings here.
We want to get married in a church elsewhere, but St Augustine’s is our parish church. Will you read our banns?
Yes, we’d love to. We can do this once nationality and residency checks have been completed, and payment has been received.
To have your banns read at St Augustine’s, you’ll need to complete this form.
Who can marry at St Augustine’s?
A couple can marry at St Augustine’s if:
- They live in the parish, or
- They form a connection by attending services (at least) monthly for a minimum of six months, or
- They have another qualifying connection (for example, being baptised or confirmed here, having lived in the parish previously, or if a parent has a connection). (Do ask us if you’re unsure!)
Do I live in St Augustine’s parish?
This map shows whether you live in St Augustine’s, Tooting. (Click on the map to view the boundaries of the parish).
How can I arrange to get married at St Augustine’s?
- Please contact us as early as possible to discuss dates and eligibility. Do this before booking a reception. Early contact helps us confirm the church diary, the availability of a priest, and the legal preliminaries (usually banns).
We will organise:
- Initial chat – a priest will meet you to get to know you, check you can legally marry here, and talk through dates.
- Preparation – we’ll arrange marriage preparation, choose readings and music, and plan the service.
- Paperwork – we’ll guide you through banns or any licence required, IDs, and fees.
- Rehearsal – usually in the week of the wedding.
How much does it cost to get married in a church?
All Church of England churches charge the same amount to read banns and to perform the ceremony. It often costs less to marry in church than at a registry office. To view the fees for the current year, you can find a fees table here.
If I am from another Christian tradition that doesn’t have a building, can I hire St Augustine’s to marry there?
Weddings here are conducted according to a Church of England form of service (rite) and led by a Church of England priest who must be listed in the National Register of Clergy. Ministers from other churches are welcome (by prior agreement) to take a small role in a wedding service (eg. readings or prayers), but cannot conduct wedding ceremonies in our building.
