WEDDINGS:
Knox United Church - Parksville offers a warm and comfortable setting for weddings big and small. The professional accoustics in the sanctuary magnify the glorious sounds of the grand piano and the magnificent Rogers Organ and adds to the joy of the occasion.
We can arrange for a pianist or organist, offer referrals for other types of musicians, or arrange rehearsal time for musicians you wish to bring in.
The church holds more than 300 people in the main sanctuary. The chapel is equally lovely for more intimate numbers.
There is a lounge and fully equipped kitchen to host wedding receptions
Knox United Church is available for couples who wish to have their wedding celebrated by a minister of their choice, after consultation with our resident minister. It is not a requirement for the couple to be members of Knox but it is necessary that they want a Christian ceremony. Couples of all sexual orientations are welcomed at Knox and can be married within the church.
You are welcome to call the church office at 250 248-3927 for more information. The best time to call is between 9:00 am and noon weekdays, or email anytime to admin@kucparksville.ca. The office will arrange a meeting with our minister to discuss your plans and how the church can support you. Information about pre-marital counseling, and other resources available in the community, will happily be provided.
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BAPTISMS:
Here is how the sacrament of baptism process happens in many United Church of Canada churches:
Candidates’ names are presented by the minister to the worship team and from there to our official board or administrative bodies for their blessing. Ideally, these processes happen several weeks before the designated Sunday, and after time has been spent with candidates and their families preparing for baptism or renewal of vows.
On the designated Sunday for baptism, candidates are presented to the congregation; a series of particular faith based questions are asked; verbal promises are made; and the gathered congregation makes its own commitment to the candidate in the context of a regular worship service.
This is followed by a ritual of blessing with water from the baptismal font.
Sometimes an oil of anointing, laying on of hands, and a presentation of certificates along with a special baptismal candle is made, depending on the particular practices of the congregation as set out by its worship committee.
At the conclusion of the service, the candidate’s name is added as a member to the historic roll of the church.
As well, some very particular attention is given to the music choices for the day, the learning or theme time, and the homily focused on the sacrament of baptism.