As a congregation of the United Church of Canada,

we atGordon United

strive to be:

WelcomingWe are a warm, accepting Christian

community that welcomes and values all persons. We appreciate our diversity and gifts as we work together to nurture

our congregation and community.

WorshipfulWe worship in response to God’s love as shown in Jesus, uplifting spirits of people

of all ages in ways that encompass traditional and innovative styles. The

sacraments of baptism and communion are a fundamental part of our worship.

Lay DrivenThe people are the church. Each of us has something to offer. We tap into all

our talents and skills, actively supporting our ministry in leadership, service and prayer. Leadership comes from the laity with our minister acting

as a facilitator.

Theologically OpenWe are a scripture based, democratic

church that welcomes new ideas, challenging opinions and the exploration of values. We encourage participation and progressive change in a reflective,

thoughtful, innovative manner.

ResponsiveWe listen to our local community, responding to unmet needs and concerns as an expression of our

commitment to the gospel. We make our church and its programmes

accessible to our region and we share in the global outreach of the greater

church.

The United Church of CanadaOur Creed

We are not alone,we live in God’s world.

We believe in God:who has created

and is creating,who has come in Jesus,

the Word made flesh,to reconcile and make new,

who works in us and othersby the Spirit.

We trust in God.We are called to be the Church:

to celebrate God’s presence,to live with respect in Creation,to love and serve others,to seek justice and resist evil,to proclaim Jesus, crucified and

risen,our judge and our hope.

In life, in death, in life beyond death,

God is with us.We are not alone.

Thanks be to God.

Come and Check Us OutWe strive to make a difference by deepening and acting on our faith; responding to God’s ancient call

to live justly and peaceably.

Join with us any time, as often as you like. We hope that you will consider making Gordon United your church

home.

Weddingsat

Gordon United Church

“So they are no longer two,but one flesh.”

Jesus, as remembered in Mark 10:8

Rev. Heidi Koschzeck, MinisterTim Olfert, Music Director

Hazel Cameron, Admin. Assistant

935 Goldstream Avenue(west off Jacklin Road in Langford)

Victoria, British Columbia, V9B 2Y2ph: 250-478-6632

email: office@gordonunitedchurch.ca

Congratulations!We rejoice with you in your decision to be married and hope that the following guidelines will be helpful in planning your celebration.

PreparationChristian marriage is a lifelong commitment that is made to God by two people in front of family and friends. To prepare for the service, you are asked to meet with our minister at least twice. If you are not an active member of a faith community, you are required to undertake a marriage preparation course before being wed through Gordon United. If you are a member, we still recommend that you take a course. Several are available in Victoria and we would be pleased to direct you to them. Gordon United church has an Equal Marriage policy i.e. LGBTQ couples are welcome to be married in this church.

Marriage License and NumberThis document is essential and must be in the hands of the minister before the marriage service can take place. Therefore, it is worth obtaining the license well in advance of the date of the ceremony. Marriage Licenses can be obtained through the Department of Vital Statistics.

Order of ServiceThe worship service is developed in consultation with our minister. We are

open to a variety of styles and opportunities for participation. Some options for scriptures, hymns, promises and blessings are available through the office. We hope to create a service that reflects your unique qualities and our common faith.

OrganistOur music director, Tim Olfert, can be contacted through the office. He is prepared to discuss any requests that you may have. If there are special requests for which he doesn’t have sheet music, it would be helpful if you supplied the music. Otherwise, please allow sufficient time for him to obtain music. If you wish to use the services of an outside musician, please consult with our minister.

FlowersWe suggest that one person be made responsible for bringing flowers and other decorations to church at least half an hour prior to the wedding and that the same person be responsible for removing decorations following service. For more elaborate decorations, contact the church office well in advance to establish appropriate set up and take down times. You are welcome to leave flowers in the church for the Sunday worship service. If this is the case, please inform the minister of your intention.

PhotographsWe ask that you appoint one person to act as your official photographer. This person should attend the rehearsal so that the minister can discuss expectations. Other photographers are welcome to take photos before the Call to Worship, during the kiss, and after the Benediction.

Confetti/Rice/Bird SeedBecause of clean up issues, we ask you to ensure that confetti is not used in or

around the church. Instead of confetti, many couples are choosing to have the congregation blow bubbles. Rice or birdseed can be used outside.

Wedding CostsTo meet our staffing and facility costs, Please refer to our rate sheet.

We ask that you cover these costs in full at least one week prior to the wedding. The cheque should be made out to the Gordon United Church.

Should you request that a soloist or instrumentalist in addition to the organist perform at your wedding, it can be arranged. Note as well that our congregation will often cater events. If you would like to bring in your own catering, there is a charge for the kitchen.

TomorrowsThere is more to marriage than one ceremony. We at Gordon United are here to support your marriage. In the coming years, know that you are welcome in our community, whether you be seeking worship opportunities or a place to talk about the realities of married life. If there is any way in which we can be of service, please let us know.

Updated |August 24, 2017