Weddings at Bethel

Want to get married at Bethel?
There are three easy steps:

1. Fill out application. (Click here to apply.)
2. A attend “Marriage Insurance” and Marriage Mentor Small Group Follow-Up in February and March.
3. Check out wedding FAQs (policies & procedures) below.

FAQs

Once my application is approved, what do I do?

Once approved, you may reserve the facilities you require at 812.477.8888 with two possible dates. (NOTE: We recommend that you NOT reserve caterers, florists, bridal wear, etc., until your wedding date is confirmed on our church calendar.)

What are “Marriage Insurance” and Marriage Mentor Small Groups?

“Marriage Insurance” focuses on helping the couple evaluate and strengthen their relationship according to sound Biblical principles and emotional truths. Biblical roles for marriage, communication, finances, sexuality, and other topics are addressed in an understandable and practical style. The Marriage Mentor Small Group will use the book Preparing for Marriage. We ask all couples to read and review this book in the six-session small group follow-up. Cost for Marriage Insurance – $95/couple ($75/couple if registered by Feb. 1)

Is there anything we need to do before we start premarital counseling?

Before premarital counseling begins, you’ll need to complete the FOCCUS Relationship Inventory* for your mentor couple or pastor to review with you. The inventory is given so you may deepen your understanding and awareness of important strengths and possible growth areas. It takes approximately two weeks to process the results. Three feedback sessions with mentor couple or officiating pastor are required. ($45/couple)*

What time can I schedule my wedding?

Weddings may be scheduled on Saturdays between the hours of 10:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. (1:00 p.m. if reception is at church). Because there will be other activities scheduled throughout the church and school building the same day as your wedding, you may decorate the auditorium on Friday after 5:00 p.m. However, you are required to vacate the auditorium two hours after the wedding begins. If your reception is here, you must vacate the building by 5:00 p.m. following your wedding.

Do I need to confirm plans prior to wedding?

One month prior to your wedding, contact Pastor Dave Schwambach, at 812.477.8888. You will finalize your wedding plans here at Bethel at that time. Final payment is due at this meeting. For reception needs, contact Reception Coordinator, Cindy Kandel, at 812.477.0695.

Can I request a pastor?

Family Pastor Dave Schwambach or Pastor Chris Chaudoin will perform wedding ceremonies. Our speaking & executive pastors, including Stephen Schwambach, do not typically perform weddings.

Can anyone get married at Bethel?

Weddings at Bethel are scheduled primarily for regular attenders and unchurched couples genuinely seeking a church home.

How much advance notice do you need?

You’ll need at least six months advance notice (although one year is highly recommended) to apply, reserve the facilities and begin the marriage preparation process.

How long should we date before getting married?

We recommend dating at least one year before marriage. There is no shortcut to building intimacy, trust, and communication. While some people have skills and maturity which enable them to build an intimate relationship faster than others, we believe that a one-year dating relationship is the minimum in light of the permanent nature of a marriage relationship.

If I’ve been divorced, can I get married at Bethel?

If you are divorced, have Biblical grounds for divorce*, and have been legally divorced for at least one year, then you may apply for remarriage at Bethel.

*For more info on Biblical grounds for divorce, read Chapter 3 of Tough Talk to a Stubborn Spouse by Stephen Schwambach (available through the church for $17.95 or Amazon.com)

If I’m currently co-habitating (living with my future spouse), can I get married at Bethel?

The Bible teaches that sex is created exclusively for within marriage, so Bethel auditorium weddings are reserved for those couples choosing to pursue that course.

If you are currently living together, we recommend that you immediately set up separate residences, maintain sexual purity and pursue the premarital process.

For more info on cohabitation, call 1-800-AFAMILY and ask for the booklet, Five Reasons You Need A Piece of Paper, published by Focus on the Family.

Are there prices or costs to getting married at Bethel?

Due to expenses incurred for weddings, there are some costs involved.

Here are your options:

Basic Wedding – $395

Includes:

• Church Auditorium
• Wedding Director
• Sound Personnel
• Officiating Minister
• Rehearsal: Friday, 6 PM

$395 due one month prior to wedding (may be given to Wedding Director or turned in at the church office) plus the $95 Marriage Insurance process fee.

Basic Wedding plus Video Screens – $495

$495 due one month prior to wedding (may be given to Wedding Director or turned in at the church office) plus the $95 Marriage Insurance process fee.

Videotape the Wedding Ceremony – Additional $375

On DVD (may be given to Wedding Director or turned in at the church office)

Prayer Garden Wedding – $295

Includes:

• Prayer Garden
• Officiating Minister
• Rehearsal: Friday, 6 PM

$295 due one month prior to wedding (may be turned in at the church office) plus the $95 Marriage Insurance process fee.

Reception – $195

Includes:

• Room Rental (accommodates 200 guests) (Available Rooms 108-112)
• Reception Information – Cindy Kandel, 812-477-8888

$195 due one month prior to wedding (may be given to Wedding Director or turned in at the church office)

Extra Fees Include:

• Organist
• Musicians
• Use of rice/birdseed – $50

Is there a recommended Order of Service?

Here is a standard Order of Service:

• Parents Enter
• Processional
• Welcome
• Vows of Intent
• Giving of Bride
• Vows
• Covenant Vow Recognition
• Dedication of Christian Home
• Song
• Unity Candle
• Communion
• Gospel Presentation: 1 Corinthians 13 and John 3:16
• Ring Ceremony
• Pronouncement of Marriage
• The Kiss
• Presentation of Newlyweds

Apply

Click here to apply. (Note: This is not a reservation or order form. Form submission does not guarantee reservations.)

Any other questions?

Contact:

Family Pastor Dave Schwambach, Email  (davidschwambach1bethelcom)