WEDDINGS
"Marrying in church is personal, meaningful and spiritual just as you want it to be. Churches are special and unique places to get married in - the prayers, promises and the whole service of celebration become part of your marriage, on the day itself and beyond." (Church of England)
Legally, you are entitled to get married in St. John's Church if either one of you lives in the ecclesiastical parish of St. John the Evangelist, Upper St Leonards – or if you live in another parish but you have a "qualifying connection" with St. John's. We are also proud to provide Blessings for same-sex couples.
To find out more about marrying at St. John's contact the Office and arrange a chat with the Rector.
You can also find out a lot more about weddings in the Church of England at Church of England Weddings
BAPTISMS / CHRISTENINGS
"Anyone can get in touch with a church to find about having their child christened. During a christening your child will be baptized with water. It’s the start of an amazing journey of faith for your child and a special day for all your friends and family." (Church of England)
Every child who lives in the parish of St. John’s has the right to be baptised at the church. If you don't live in the Parish it may still be possible.
The first thing to do is to contact the Office and arrange a chat with the Rector.
You can find out a lot more about baptisms in the Church of England at Church of England Christenings
FUNERALS
"A church will always be there to help you through one of life’s most difficult times. A Church of England-led funeral is available to everyone, giving support before, during and after the service, for as long as it’s needed." (Church of England)
Anyone who lived in the parish is entitled to have their funeral conducted in the Parish Church.
The funeral director plays a very important part in all the arrangements and will want to know if the funeral is to be in the parish church or if the minister is to take the service in the crematorium. As a general co-ordinator, the funeral director should be your first port of call and will take the burden of worry off your shoulders.
If you would like a minister from St. John’s to take the service, please contact the Rector at the same time as contacting the funeral director.
Find out a more about funerals in the Church of England at Church of England Funerals