"Do not worry about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus."
(Philippians 4:6-7)
Renewal of Wedding Vows ↑
You can renew your wedding vows at any time after your wedding day, whether you had a church wedding or not. Couples cherish this service for various reasons, such as celebrating an anniversary, reaffirming their commitment after a period of separation or difficulty, or holding a service of thanksgiving if they were married abroad and wish to celebrate at home. During this special occasion, you can even have your rings blessed, whether they are your existing wedding rings or special rings like eternity rings.
There are no legal restrictions on where and when you can renew your vows, offering you the freedom to choose any location and time that holds significance for you. It could be at home, in the churchyard or another outdoor venue, at church, or combined with another service.
If you choose to have a standalone service, there is a fee involved. However, if your renewal is combined with another service (usually our Thursday service), there is no additional fee for the renewal itself. Any extra elements you desire, such as an organist, flowers, or the assistance of a verger, would be charged at the church's standard rate.
Renewing or recalling your marriage vows is a beautiful public declaration of your enduring love, affection, and commitment to each other. It is important to remember that this is not a reenactment of your wedding day. Your marriage is an ongoing and sacred covenant. Renewal of vows serves as a reaffirmation of this ongoing sacred commitment, highlighting the ongoing nature of your love and dedication to one another. There was a uniqueness and sanctity in your original wedding ceremony. The service is framed as a time of thanksgiving, providing an opportunity for you to reflect on your journey together, express gratitude for each other, and seek continued blessings for your marriage. For this reason, we kindly ask that couples seeking to renew wedding vows do not wear a wedding dress. Please note that our service of Thanksgiving for Marriage does not include walking down the aisle. Additionally, there is no role for bridesmaids or a best man in this service.
We are here to help you choose music and readings for your service, which can mirror those from your wedding day if you wish. Whether you want to invite all your family and friends or prefer a more intimate gathering, we are here to support you in creating a meaningful and memorable celebration.
First Communion ↑
If your child was baptised as an infant and they have started primary school, then they will be looking to receive their first communion as a member of the Church. Communion is the receiving of bread and wine, the body and blood of Christ, during our Parish Eucharist service. We will prepare each child as they take this first step in making the faith their own. Typically this is offered to children between the ages of five and ten.
Confirmation ↑
Confirmation is an important milestone in making faith your own, especially if you were baptised as a child. It marks the point in the Christian journey where those who have been baptised make a firm commitment to live and work as a disciple of Jesus Christ. Through prayer and the laying on of hands by a bishop, the Church asks God to fill each candidate with the power of the Holy Spirit to live the life of a disciple. We can take candidates from around the age of ten onwards.
To enquire about being confirmed within the Church of England please complete our enquiry form or contact our parish office.
Vocation ↑
Everyone has a vocation. A vocation is what you are called by God to be and do.
Your vocation can be your paid job, such as being a teacher or office worker, where you live out your Christian faith. It can also be unpaid roles like parenting or volunteering. Some are called to formal church roles, either paid or unpaid, like being a vicar, chaplain, or evangelist. We have Vocations Advisors who can help you discern your calling and understand its impact on you, your family, and the church.
"Then I heard the voice of the Lord saying, “Whom shall I send, and who will go for us?” And I said, “Here am I; send me!”"
(Isaiah 6:8)
This short film shares the stories of people from around the diocese who have responded to a sense of calling. Former accountants, project managers, mothers and students, some in training and some living life as parish priests, reflect on their journeys into a life of ordained ministry.
If you are exploring a vocation to ministry within Easthampstead Parish, then please contact us as we would love to explore this further with you.
Memorial Service ↑
We always offer the opportunity for those who have lost loved ones to hold Memorial Services in Easthampstead Parish. We will provide support to put services together to meet personal requirements, and remember all that was good in the lives of the departed. So, if you are in this position yourself, or you know of local people who are, please be reassured and pass on this message. If you would like to register an interest in having a service once it is possible again (without obligation), please contact our church office.