Rev’s Reflection July 2026 

Are church weddings going out of fashion? Is marriage going out of fashion? I do hope not.

A church wedding can be one of the highlights of a village summer. I heartily encourage our couples to scatter (biodegradable) confetti with enthusiasm because those colourful petals adorn the church path and grounds for days afterwards. They bring a smile to my face and remind everyone passing through that something very special has taken place. The confetti tells a story. It speaks of two people who have made some very serious promises to one another and who have chosen to make those promises in your village church, surrounded by family and friends. Isn’t that wonderful? I do love a wedding.

Our church has witnessed centuries of couples doing exactly the same thing. For generations, nervous grooms have stood waiting and wondering whether the best man still has the rings. Brides have walked slowly up the path, sometimes clutching tightly onto their father’s arm, before pausing at that ancient doorway for a final smile, a whispered word of encouragement, or perhaps one last deep breath. Meanwhile, guests arrive in their finery, parents perform heroic attempts to keep flower girls and page boys tidy, and if the weather is less than cooperative, a mountain of umbrellas soon appears.

Church weddings are wonderfully flexible. Alongside the traditional elements, couples can include modern music, favourite songs, poems, readings and personal tributes. In short, we want your wedding to feel uniquely you. One of the great joys of my role is getting to know couples during the months leading up to the big day. There is the initial excitement, then a pleasantly calm period when everything seems under control, followed by the final frantic sprint. It is a privilege to be part of such an important chapter in people’s lives. And then comes the moment itself. The music softens and a hush falls over the church. Two people make their promises to one another and, for a few precious moments, the rest of the world fades into the background.

What many people don’t realise is that you don’t have to be a regular churchgoer to be married in church. The parish church is here for the whole parish. If you have a family connection, have lived in the village, or have another qualifying connection, you may well be able to marry here. And even if you’re not sure whether you qualify, don’t assume the answer is no, come and have a chat.

So, if you know a couple planning a wedding, do spread the word. Tell them that church weddings are very much still in fashion. Better yet, tell them that in a hundred years’ time, a scattering of confetti might still be making a passing vicar smile.

Julie                                                             ‘Set me as a seal upon your heart’ Song of Solomon 8:6