Weddings

Weddings can be organised by arrangement with the Vicar. Our preferences are to conduct weddings in consecrated premises, however they can be held in a variety of places, the Vicar will discuss this with you. As a rule, weddings in any of our premises will be conducted by the clergy of the parish, but as a rule, most ordained ministers can be permitted preside over your service in our churches. Church ministers are required by law to use any of the services approved by the particular denomination for weddings. There are several to choose from and the Vicar will discuss these with you. In general though, there is plenty of scope for you to add in your preferences.

The Statutes of the Anglican Church do not allow the marrying of same sex couples. The church is sympathetic to the needs of same sex couples and we offer the opportunity of having your relationship blessed at an intimate and specially planned service

Churches provide a special atmosphere and environment for couples to celebrate their special day, and we look forward to discussing our ideas with you.

Please contact the Reverend Fr Mark Sullivan for further information or assistance vicar@heathcote-mtpleasant.org.nz

 

Funerals

Dealing with the loss of a loved one is always difficult. Our churches are equipped with modern facilities to allow a family to organise a service that might best provide comfort and peace at this most difficult time. Both of our church premises have a supper room for refreshments following the service. Large sunny and private outside decks provide an intimate and quiet space to meet with those who stay to meet with loved ones.

The Church of St Mary in Heathcote also has a memorial garden for the interment of ashes. Interments can be arranged to take place either during the funeral service or at another time when suitable. Memorials can be added to mark the resting place.

Funerals have been the business of the Church for many hundreds of years. Our Clergy are very skilled at assisting families through these difficult times. The Vicar will continue to support you following the service and be on hand to help with any grief issues that might follow.

Please contact the Reverend Fr Mark Sullivan for further information or assistance vicar@heathcote-mtpleasant.org.nz

 

Baptisms

A Baptism (Christening) is a celebration for the Church of Jesus Christ and a family will be encouraged to have their child dedicated to God in a normal Eucharist service on a Sunday. The Vicar will talk you through the various requirements prior to the service.

Please contact the Reverend Fr Mark Sullivan for further information or assistance vicar@heathcote-mtpleasant.org.nz

 

Other Pastoral Services

The Vicar is able to meet with you to discuss any personal services or special occasions that you need to celebrate liturgically. This include marriage blessings, anniversary celebrations, family occasions, memorial services, interment of loved ones, unveiling services, dedication or naming of a child etc. If you wish to acknowledge a special occasion in your life, the Church is available to plan a special service with you.

Please contact the Reverend Fr Mark Sullivan for further information or assistance vicar@heathcote-mtpleasant.org.nz

 

Grief or special Support

Many people don't realise that clergy are especially trained to care for people in a variety of situations. While clerical training is based around scripture, so is all counselling. It is the aim of the counsellor to help an individual work through a process of coming to terms with the situation before them in an atmosphere of support, concern and care. Often in times of trial, we look beyond our natural sorrow and into the world for answers to the many questions that plague us.

We have a very good team of supporters (both ordained and lay) to work with you in special times when the problems of the world get us down

Please contact the Reverend Fr Mark Sullivan for further information or assistance vicar@heathcote-mtpleasant.org.nz