Choosing a minister

Wilshire’s pastoral staff includes a number of qualified ministers for weddings. The wedding coordinator can provide a list of available ministers. Preference should be given to Wilshire ministers to conduct weddings at Wilshire.

Outside ministers, particularly those who are family members of the bride or groom, are welcome to officiate in wedding ceremonies at Wilshire if prior arrangements are made with the associate pastor. When allowed, outside ministers must agree to conduct the ceremony within the parameters outlined by Wilshire.

Payment for the minister’s service is not included in the total wedding fee. The wedding coordinator can give guidance as requested.

Premarital counseling

Each minister has his or her own preferences for premarital counseling for couples to be married at Wilshire. Many of Wilshire’s ministers are certified administrators of the Prepare Inventory, which is an excellent basis for premarital counseling. Wilshire highly recommends premarital counseling. When using a Wilshire minister to conduct the wedding, there is a $35 assessment fee for the Prepare Inventory. Any additional compensation to the minister should be considered part of the honorarium for the wedding.

Wilshire ministers also are available to conduct premarital counseling with couples who are to be married elsewhere. However, in these cases a counseling fee of $135 is required.

Wilshire also offers a special class for nearly and newly married couples. Beginnings Class meets on Sunday mornings from 9:40 to 10:45 a.m. and is taught twice a year. Participation in this class is not required to be married at Wilshire, although the class is an excellent free resource. The next Beginnings class begins March 2, 2008. Send email if you are interested.