Father Richard Seabrook

Church of England

We've got in touch with the experts - those people who conduct the marriage ceremony - to ask all those wedding questions that you've always wanted to ask!

Father Richard Seabrook, from St Peter and Paul Church in Hockley, Essex has volunteered his services. He's a Church of England vicar, but unlike Canon Hirst, our previous celebrant, Father Seabrook follows the Anglo-Catholic tradition.

Anglo-Catholics have a traditional understanding of the faith and believe that this tradition should not be changed by more contemporary interpretations. Worship follows more of the Catholic practices with incense, candles and statues. Special emphasis is given to the Mass as the centre of Christian life and much importance is also placed on the Sacraments (including Confession), the Virgin Mary, the saints, and praying for the dead. Anglo-Catholicism is a growing and strong tradition in the Church of England.

Your questions

Bible readings

Q. My fiance and I are Christians, worshipping at St. Luke's in Chelsea. We have been to quite a few weddings recently and want to avoid the 'usual' readings (e.g. Corinthians faith, hope and charity etc!). Can you suggest anything Scriptural that is not often (if at all) used? Of course we will be asking our Rector, but all ideas are welcome! (Except, perhaps Ephesians 5:22!). We will be using the AV.

A. From the Old Testament: Song of Songs 3:1-4 - this is a beautiful reading about finding love. From the New Testament: Ephesians 3:14 - end - the depth of Christ's love. 1 John 4:7-12 - the love of God shown to us in Jesus Christ. Matthew 7: 21-27 - the solid rock which is the marriage bond. Mark 10: 6-9 - what God has joined together man must not separate. John 2: 1-11 personally one of my favourites: the miracle at Cana and the transformation of water into wine which is related to the transformation and change when we marry, whereby Jesus discloses his glory.

Personally I can't see anything wrong with Ephesians 5:22. It is a wonderful description of the relationship of Christ (the Bridegroom) and the Church (his Bride) and the mystery of the marriage bond and the duty of Christians husbands and wives to have the relationship of Christ and his Church as their model for Holy Matrimony.

Religious poems

Q. Please could you suggest a book of religious poetry that would be suitable for our wedding service. We are getting married in St Johns at Whittle Le Woods, Lancs in October, and are hoping to have two readings, something from the Bible, and also a poem. Many thanks.

A. I don't know of any such books I am afraid. Why not go for two biblical readings including a gospel reading. If you want something poetic in style try Song of Songs 3:1-4.

Previous 1 2 Next