Trinity Episcopal Church

 

WHAT ABOUT A MARRIAGE LICENSE?

The County Clerk maintains an information line to help you (918-596-5452).  In Oklahoma, a Marriage License is valid for ten days and requires a blood test taken within thirty days.  Trinity asks that you please simply leave the license at the Church when you get it.

WHAT IF ONE OR BOTH OF US ARE DIVORCED?

Marriage is a commitment "until we are parted by death." Yet, divorce is common in today's world. The Episcopal Church will bless a second marriage only after consent of the bishop is obtained. This means additional counseling, assurances that commitments to children are fulfilled, minimum time after legal divorce, more time for planning, etc.   If divorce is part of your story, please let the priest know immediately so we can help you plan accordingly.

DOES TRINITY DO SAME GENDER WEDDINGS?

Yes.  The Diocese of Oklahoma allows same-gender marriage in the church and Trinity is happy to accommodate all couples that meet the guidelines.  The couple must undergo pre-marital counseling with a member of the clergy, as would any other couple.  Please feel free to contact us with further questions.

CAN WE USE A PRIEST FROM ANOTHER CHURCH?

The Trinity clergy are always in charge of the service but we will be happy to work with you in having outside clergy assist.  The liturgy will always be from the Book of Common Prayer.  Trinity must invite any other participants so please consult with your priest before you extend even an informal invitation.

WILL SOMEONE BE ABLE TO HELP US ON THE BIG DAY?

The Wedding Committee of our Altar Guild coordinates all weddings and blessings at Trinity. The Clergy and the Wedding Committee will direct both rehearsals and weddings/blessings, consulting with you on all arrangements. They will make sure you are where you need to be. Bridal consultants are not needed, though you are welcome to have them assist you in dressing.

WHERE DO WE ORDER FLOWERS?

Our high altar is a stunning setting for your vows, with or without flowers. However, flowers add the beauty of the occasion and we strongly encourage you to use Mary Murray’s or Toni’s who are both very familiar with making arrangements for Trinity. Other establishments tend to make arrangements that are too small and are lost in the vast and ornate space. Trinity has two liners for the urns on the altar which can be given to your florist. Whichever florist you use, please be sure that your florist is aware of the opening and closing times of the church for delivery purposes.

CAN WE USE A PHOTOGRAPHER?

When you chose your photographer, please explain that a primary concern is to preserve the atmosphere of worship. During the service itself, photography is restricted to the balcony (video or still, no flash; time exposures only during singing or times of congregational participation). A photographer may stand no more than four pews from the entrance to photograph the processions, but the procession will not pause for it. Photos may be taken before or after the ceremony. We suggest that you place a time limit on those following the ceremony as a courtesy to your guests waiting at the reception.

CAN WE USE A UNITY CANDLE?

No, Unity Candles are not used in the Episcopal Church.  Both the sacraments of Holy Matrimony and Eucharist express "two becoming one."  Additional symbolism dilutes that focus.

CAN WE USE AN AISLE RUNNER?

No, aisle runners are not used at Trinity Episcopal Church. Experience tells us that aisle runners are a tripping hazard and we don't want anything ruining your wedding.

CAN WE USE FLOWERS GIRLS AND RING BEARERS?

Absolutely, but please be sensitive to their ages.  Young children can be very distracting during weddings and may disturb the solemnity of the occasion. Please keep in mind that, like aisle runners, flower petals are a tripping hazard and may not be scattered during the service.

WHO CHOOSES THE ACOLYTES?

The acolytes will be selected by our vergers unless you have specific requests.  We will do our best to accommodate your requests where possible.

DO WE HAVE TO INCLUDE EUCHARIST (COMMUNION)?

The Eucharist is part of the prayers of the community -- one of the ways the community joins together in giving thanks for God's grace. Christian Marriage points out that it is the single most important first act a couple can make. Consequently we always encourage couples to include Eucharist and all guests are invited to participate.  This being said, you are not required to include Eucharist and you and your priest may discuss this.

IS THE GREAT HALL AVAILABLE FOR RECEPTIONS?

Yes. Receptions must be arranged with the wedding coordinator.   We are happy to work with your caterer. Please contact Angela Tilley with questions or to make arrangements. 

MAY WE SERVE ALCOHOL?

Yes, but only after the wedding.  Your wedding or blessing deserves full, unadulterated attention and serving alcohol beforehand may diminish the beauty and holiness.  The priest may refuse participation in the wedding/blessing to anyone who has been drinking.

CAN WE USE A GUEST BOOK?

Yes, it's appropriate to place the guest book in the narthex (the very back of the church by the west doors) where you will find a stand for this purpose.  The Wedding Committee will be happy to work with you on possible alternate placements.

IS THERE A ROOM FOR THE WEDDING PARTY TO GET READY?

Yes, there is a room for the wedding party in the undercroft.  Please coordinate with the Wedding Committee to ensure it is available at the time you wish.

CAN WE THROW RICE?

No, please refrain from throwing rice or birdseed or scattering flower petals in the aisles. The Wedding Committee can help you with creative alternatives. Thank you!

CAN WE SMOKE AT TRINITY

No, the Trinity campus is smoke free. Please smoke only on the public walkways, away from entrances.