The Sacrament of Marriage

Christian marriage is a solemn and public covenant between a man and a woman in the presence of God.  In the Episcopal Church, it is required that at least one of the parties be a baptized Christian; that the ceremony be attested by at least two witnesses; and that the marriage conform to the laws of the State and the canons of this Church. 

"The union of husband and wife in heart, body, and mind is intended by God for their mutual joy; for the help and comfort given one another in prosperity and adversity; and, when it is God's will, for the procreation of children and their nurture in the knowledge and love of the Lord.  Therefore marriage is not to be entered into unadvisedly or lightly, but reverently, deliberately, and in accordance with the purposes for which it was instituted by God."

It is required that all persons wishing to be married at Ascension complete a pre-marital course. This course is offered by Episcopal Community Services of the Diocese of Long Island and arrangements are made through the parish priest. 

Planning the Wedding

 - Contact the parish priest immediately to discuss the date of the ceremony. 
 - If one or both parties is divorced, the Bishop must be given 60 days notice in order to give his permission for the the ceremony to occur.  (This is generally requested by the priest after the completion of the pre-marital course.)
- Visiting clergy may officiate with the permission of the parish priest.
- Weddings are generally not performed during Lent (February and March), except in emergencies.  Advent (December until 12/25) weddings are discouraged. 

Please feel free to contact the Parish Office at 718-389-3831 for more information. 

Blessing of Same-Sex Unions

 In the State of New York, same gender unions are not permitted by law.  Please feel free to contact the parish priest for more information.