Orthodox Wedding (Sacrament of Marriage)

An Orthodox wedding is not simply a ceremony. It is a Sacrament in which God blesses the union of a man and woman for a life together in faith and love.

How to Schedule a Wedding

1. Contact Fr. Stephen as early as possible, ideally 6 months before your planned date
2. Schedule a meeting to discuss preparation
3. Choose a date (there are restrictions; not all dates are available)

Phone: 727-777-4450

Requirements

For the Couple

• At least one spouse must be an Orthodox Christian
• Both must be baptized
• A Florida Marriage License is required
• Pre-marital preparation: meetings with the priest (number determined by the priest)
• If one spouse is of a different Christian confession, a bishop’s blessing is needed

Documents

• Certificate of Baptism
• Florida Marriage License (obtained at the Pinellas County Clerk of Court)
• If previously married, documentation of dissolution (both ecclesiastical and civil)

What Happens During an Orthodox Wedding

The Orthodox wedding consists of two parts:

1. Betrothal (Exchange of Rings)

• Exchange of wedding rings
• Prayers for the blessing of the union
• Rings are placed on the right hand

2. Crowning (The Wedding Itself)

• Crowns: the priest places crowns on the heads of the couple. They symbolize the Kingdom of Heaven and the martyrdom of married life together.
• Common cup: the couple drinks wine from a single cup, their first shared act
• Procession: three times around the center table, holding candles
• Removal of crowns and final prayers

Duration: approximately 45 to 60 minutes.

When Weddings Are Permitted

Weddings cannot be performed during:

• Great Lent and Holy Week
• Nativity Fast (Advent)
• Apostles’ Fast and Dormition Fast
• The eves and days of major feasts
• Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays

Fr. Stephen will help you choose a date that works with the church calendar.

Practical Details

The Church

St. Michael is a beautiful temple with icons and an iconostasis. Capacity: up to 150 guests.

Language

The wedding can be performed in Ukrainian, English, or bilingually, whatever is most meaningful for the couple.

Photography & Video

Photographers and videographers are welcome. We ask for respect for the sacred nature of the Sacrament: no flash during prayers.

Donation

The amount of the donation is discussed with the priest individually.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can we have a wedding if one of us is not Orthodox? Yes, with a bishop’s blessing. At least one spouse must be Orthodox.

Do we need a civil marriage before the church wedding? You need a Florida Marriage License. The priest will sign it after the ceremony.

Can we remarry in the church after a divorce? Yes, with a bishop’s blessing. An ecclesiastical dissolution of the previous marriage is required.

Can we bring our own decorator or florist? Yes, by prior arrangement with the parish.

Contact Us

Fr. Stephen Siniari Phone: 727-777-4450

St. Michael Ukrainian Orthodox Church 9201 60th St, Pinellas Park, FL 33782