Weddings at . . .
 

First Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in Edwardsville, Illinois

WeddingPolicy2011.pdf

First Christian Church invites you to celebrate your wedding ceremony with us. Your wedding is more than a date on the calendar. It is more than a social event. It is even more than a simple church service. Your wedding represents a declaration before God and your community of your commitment to one another through faith and worship. It is an honor for us to be able to serve in such a capacity, and we look forward to a beautiful service for you, your families, and your loved ones.

First Christian Church offers:

  1. •A beautiful sanctuary
    that seats approximately 200

  2. •An inspiring “dove” stain glass window

  3. •Organ and baby grand piano

  4. •Handicap access to sanctuary
    and rest rooms

  5. •A beautiful, spacious parlor for
    the bride to prepare for her day

  6. •One pair of candelabra
    (we furnish candles)

  7. •Two wood and brass candle-lighters

  8. •Altar

  9. •Amplification system for soloists

  10. •Pew bow clips, wedding banners,
    unity candle stands

  11. •We also have reception facilities
    (please ask for details)

Minister

We require that one of our ministers officiate at all weddings held at First Christian. However, at the invitation of one of our ministers, a clergy-person of your choosing may assist in the ceremony.  For more information you may contact the church office.

Be sure to call and arrange an appointment with our minister who will be performing your ceremony. (S)he will want to meet with you at least once to get acquainted and to talk over the ceremony. If you do not know which minister is performing your wedding, please contact our Administrative Assistant,
Lisa Merlo, at 618.656.7498 or lmerlo@fccedwardsville.org.

First Christian Church typically offers a three-session pre-marriage class for those planning a wedding at First Christian Church. While the classes are not mandatory, they are highly encouraged.

Church Membership

You do not have to be a member of First Christian Church to have your wedding in our sanctuary. If you are interested in becoming a member or would like more information about the church, please let us know.

Scheduling Your Wedding

To inquire about booking a wedding, please contact our Administrative Assistant,
Lisa Merlo, at 618.656.7498 or lmerlo@fccedwardsville.org.

Wedding Facilitators

One of the church’s wedding facilitators will be present during your rehearsal and on the day of your wedding to ensure things go smoothly. Should you choose to hire outside wedding coordinators, we will be happy to have their assistance, but please be aware that our minister and facilitator will be in charge of directing the ceremony.  The presence of the wedding facilitator is mandatory for non-members and voluntary for members of the congregation.

Guidelines and Helpful Information


  1. 1.It is expected that the couple will meet with the minister of First Christian Church in advance of the wedding.  The minister will determine the number of sessions and the subject matter.

  2. 2.If the couple chooses to write their own vows for the wedding, the officiating minister must approve them.

  3. 3.The minister of First Christian Church may, upon request adjust or even waive these fees (any/all) to meet the couple’s “special circumstances.”

  4. 4.Alcohol and tobacco are not permitted in the church building.  All participants in the wedding must be sober for both the rehearsal and the wedding.

  5. 5.No food or beverages are allowed in the Narthex or the Sanctuary.

  6. 6.Pictures and videos are permitted.  Videos may be taken from a side aisle during the ceremony.  For other requests consult with the minister beforehand.

  7. 7.Throwing rice is not permitted.  Birdseed may be tossed or bubbles blown outside the building following the wedding.

  8. 8.The bridal party may dress for the wedding at the church prior to the service.  Members of the wedding committee may be available for assistance, 1.5 hours prior to the ceremony.

  9. 9.The bride and groom are responsible for securing the soloist(s).  The officiating minister must approve the music.

  10. 10.The bride and groom are responsible for securing an accomplished organist.  The First Christian Church Organist/Choir Director has the first right of refusal for the accompaniment at a set fee as stated.

  11. 11.Bulletins and programs are the responsibility of the bride and groom. 

  12. 12.Decorations are permitted.  Nothing is placed on the “Lord’s Table” except those articles fitting for worship and approved by the Church.  Please consult the minister and/or the wedding committee regarding plans for decorations.

  13. 13.The pulpit cannot be moved, as this interferes with the sound system.

  14. 14.The communion table can be moved, but it is the responsibility of the wedding party to return the communion table to its original place.

  15. 15.If an aisle runner is used, one that is 50 feet long will need to be provided by the bride & groom.

  16. 16.A kneeling bench is available from the church at no additional cost.

  17. 17.Flowers and candles are the responsibility of the bride and groom.  Two seven-candle candelabras, window candle holders, and flower stands are available from the church at no additional cost.  Set up is the responsibility of the bridge and groom.

  18. 18.A unity candle may be used and placed upon the communion table.  While we have a unity candle stand, you are welcome to bring your own.  You will need to provide the actual candles.

  19. 19.The sanctuary must be returned to its original state (decorations removed, communion table returned to original position, etc.) within three hours after the wedding.

  20. 20.An additional custodial charge will be incurred for rehearsal dinners and receptions.  The additional fee will be $75.00 per activity.

                                Member            Non-Member

Building                no charge            $200.00

Fellowship Hall    no charge            $150.00

Minister                free will               $200.00

Custodial               $75.00                $75.00

Organist                $200.00              $200.00