Christian marriage is a commitment that has its foundation in the faithfulness of God’s love. Wedding ceremonies at UCC Keene are religious services of Christian worship in which the couple is united, and vows are exchanged in the presence of God and witnesses. If yours is a blended marriage, an interfaith marriage, or a same-sex marriage, we are happy to incorporate special language and other traditions into the service. Marriage is one of life’s most hallowed moments and should be celebrated with both deep reverence and great joy!
The Board of Deacons has established the following policies and guidelines concerning weddings:
Presiding Clergy
It is understood that the presiding Pastor of The United Church of Christ in Keene will conduct the wedding ceremony. If the couple would like a family member or friend who is a clergyperson or Justice of the Peace to assist with the service, that individual must write or call the pastor and negotiate that involvement at least 90 days prior to the wedding. In accordance with the custom and practice of the United Church of Christ, former pastors may not perform a wedding service in the Church.
Pre-Marital Sessions
Any couple to be married is expected to attend at least two pre-marital sessions with the pastor to plan the wedding service. These sessions can be arranged at a time convenient to both the couple and the pastor. The pastor may request additional sessions with the couple prior to the marriage. Individuals with any prior marriages must present valid divorce decrees by the second session. The pastor retains the right to refuse to perform a marriage ceremony. We joyfully perform weddings for members of the LGBTQIA+ community.
Facilities
Our beautiful church has occupied a place of prominence at the Head of the Square in Keene for over 280 years. Other spaces in the building include a formal Parlor with an adjacent kitchen, and a smaller, contemporary chapel with adjoining lounge and/or reception space. Meeting and worship spaces are accessible by elevator, and accessible restrooms are available.
Though our historic building is beautifully maintained, please know a few creaks and imperfections come with age!
The interior of the sanctuary is formal, with three aisles (including a center aisle), four seating sections, and a wrap-around balcony. It will accommodate approximately 650 adults. There are ample restrooms; all but one are fully accessible. The Church parlor or first floor space may be used for a reception for an additional negotiated fee.
Wedding Rehearsal
The wedding rehearsal is generally held the evening before the wedding; however, this event can be scheduled at a time mutually agreed upon by the couple and the pastor. A sexton will be present to assist the pastor and the couple with logistical concerns at the rehearsal and during the wedding ceremony.
Photography
Neither guests nor the official photographer may take flash pictures during the service. The official photographer may take photos using natural light at any location(s) approved by the pastor. Under no circumstances will the photographer be allowed in the chancel area during the ceremony. Pictures may be posed in the sanctuary after the service if the couple wishes. The same rules apply to video. The purpose of these rules is to maintain an atmosphere of dignity, worship, and reverence with a minimum of distraction. Please inform your photographer/videographer/family accordingly.
Video/Livestream
The Church now has the capability to livestream your service and provide you with a Facebook link to replay it at your convenience. Our new system includes four camera angles. Note: this service is not a substitute for professional quality video. Please let Pastor Cindy know early in the planning process if you are considering this option.
Music
The church has an amplification system, a magnificent organ, and a grand piano. Typically, couples use the Church’s amazing Organist and Music Director, Beverly Caldon, for their service. All arrangements pertaining to music should be made directly with her as soon as possible. Beverly will guide you to soloists if you would like one included. Non-paid soloists should arrange a time to rehearse with the organist or pianist prior to the service. Any outside organist must coordinate with our Music Director before the wedding to receive instructions on the use of the organ. A separate fee of $100.00 should be paid to Ms. Caldon for this training time.
The church uses Hymns for a Pilgrim People as its hymnal. If congregational hymns from other sources are chosen, the family should discuss these selections with the organist and arrange for their inclusion as inserts in the program.
Flowers
We are more than happy to work with a florist of your choice and will make the church available for planning and set up provided we have ample notification. If you plan to leave some of your wedding flowers in the church after the ceremony, we ask that you let us know ahead of time so that we may include an acknowledgement of your generosity in our Sunday Bulletin!
Rice
Rice is not to be thrown. Birdseed or bubbles may be used outside the building!
Wedding License
Your wedding license must be given to the pastor at the Wedding Rehearsal. Submission of a valid license is mandatory prior to the performance of the ceremony.
Honoraria to the Church and Staff:
Honoraria to staff members and special participants should be made payable to those individuals and distributed on the night of the Wedding Rehearsal. Our Office Administrator, Julie White, can assist with any questions you may have in this regard.
Suggestions for Honoraria
Minister
- Active Members*: At Member’s Discretion
- Non-Members: $350.00
- Checks made payable to Rev. Cynthia E. Bagley
Organist
- Active Members*: $250.00
- Non-Members: $250.00
- Checks made payable to Beverly Caldon
Soloist
- Active Members*: $200.00
- Non-Members: $200.00
- Checks made payable to the individual in question
Sexton
- Active Members*: $150.00
- Non-Members: $150.00
- Checks made payable to the individual in question
Livestream Video
- Active Members*: $150.00
- Non-Members: $150.00
Building Rental
- Active Members*: At Member’s Discretion
- Non-Members: $250.00
- Checks made payable to The United Church of Christ in Keene
*Active members are those individuals who meet all the following criteria: have been officially confirmed and/or received into the membership of the church, attend church regularly, support the church financially and/or actively support the programs and missions of the church. At the discretion of the Deacons, “Friends of the Church,” i.e. Active Non-Members, can be granted member status with regard to costs.
Contact Information
- Main Church Number: (603) 352-4136, info@ucckeene.org
- Rev. Cynthia (Cindy) Bagley: (603) 361-5674, cbagley@ucckeene.org
- Beverly Caldon, Music Director: (603) 877-0810, bcaldon@ucckeene.org
- Julie White, Administrator: (603) 320-1820, jwhite@ucckeene.org