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Orthodox Wedding in Tampa Bay, Crowning Ceremony at St. Michael

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. If you are searching locally, see our guide to an Orthodox wedding in Tampa Bay for available dates and step by step preparation.

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