Weddings, funerals and baptisms
Practical information for the big days, happy and sad. You don't have to be a member of the parish, and a phone call is always the best first step.
Getting married at St. Columba's
We marry couples whether or not they come to church here, and whether or not either of you has been married before. The church seats about 220, and the aisle is a satisfying length.
The rector meets with you three or four times before the day: once to get to know you, then to plan the service and talk through marriage itself. The organist will help you choose music, and the choir can sing for an extra fee.
In New Brunswick you need a marriage licence from Service New Brunswick before the wedding. We'll remind you when to apply.
When someone has died
Call the parish office, or ask your funeral director to call us. If the office is closed, leave a message: the rector checks it every day and will call you back.
She will come and see you, at home or wherever suits, to hear about the person who has died and to plan the service with you: readings, hymns, who might speak, and whether you'd like the choir.
A funeral can be held in the church with the coffin or an urn, or as a memorial service later on. Afterwards many families gather in the parish hall, and our volunteers can serve tea and sandwiches.
You are welcome to have a funeral here whether or not the person came to church.
Baptism, for any age
Baptism is how a person becomes part of the Christian church. We baptise babies, children and adults, almost always during the 10:30 service on a Sunday, so the whole parish can welcome them.
Before
One conversation with the rector at home or in the church, and a short preparation evening for parents and godparents.
On the day
Come a little early. The baptism takes about fifteen minutes, at the stone font by the door. Photographs are welcome.
Godparents
We ask for at least one godparent who is baptised. Many families choose two or three. Adults are sponsored by a friend.
What it costs
Parishioners are people on our parish list. Nobody is ever turned away because of cost; please talk to the rector.
| Item | Parishioners | Non-parishioners |
|---|---|---|
| Wedding, use of the church | No charge | $650 |
| Wedding, organist | $250 | $250 |
| Wedding, choir (optional) | $400 | $400 |
| Funeral, use of the church | No charge | $300 |
| Funeral, organist | $200 | $200 |
| Verger (weddings and funerals) | $100 | $100 |
| Hall for a reception after a funeral | $100 | $150 |
| Baptism | No charge | No charge |
The people who will help
- The Rev. Margaret Doiron
- Rector. Weddings, funerals, baptisms and pastoral visits.
- rector@stcolumba.example