[Jesus said,] “from the beginning of creation, 'God made them male and female.' 'Therefore a man shall leave his father and mother and hold fast to his wife, and they shall become one flesh.' So they are no longer two but one flesh. What therefore God has joined together, let not man separate." (Mark 10:6-9)
What is Marriage?
God has created the blessed institution of marriage as the cornerstone of all human society. For Christians, marriage takes on a deeper, more sacred dimension. The unity between husband and wife should be a reflection of the unity between Jesus and His Church.
Getting Started
Weddings at King of Kings Lutheran Church are a joyous celebration of God’s love – a time to worship our Lord as he joins together a couple in a life-long marriage as husband and wife. Weddings are available for members of the parish, and only by arrangement with one of the pastors. To start your wedding planning, contact the church office to review available dates and pastor schedules. The wedding date is not secured until applicable forms and fees have been accepted by the church, and one of the pastors has agreed to perform the service.
Contact King of Kings church office to start planning your wedding at 816-436-7680.
Premarital Counseling
Marriage is the single most important relationship in your life. Lifelong marriage is everyone’s goal and our pastors want to help you begin your marriage with a healthy understanding of your connection to each other and to Jesus.
The pastor performing the wedding ceremony will provide private premarital counseling, consisting of approximately 4-6 sessions. Discussions are rooted in scripture and personalized to each couples strengths and areas for growth. Topics of discussion may include:
- Love, forgiveness and commitment
- Faith, finance and family
- Conflict and communication
- Practical advice
Pre-marital appointments are scheduled directly with your presiding pastor.
Church Wedding Coordinator
In order to ensure that everything goes smoothly on the day of your wedding, the church requires couples to employ our Wedding Coordinator. She will assist the pastor during the rehearsal, keep the ceremony in compliance with church policy, coordinate with vendors (florist, photographer, etc.), and arrange the attendants on the day of the wedding. She can answer any question you have about the service.
In general, you should meet with the Wedding Coordinator at least 6 weeks prior to the date of your wedding.
The Rehearsal
The rehearsal date and time should be set with the Pastor performing your wedding. Rehearsals are conducted by the pastor and the church wedding coordinator. All members of the wedding party, including ushers, musicians and parents should be in attendance. Since the rehearsal takes place it the house of God, fitting attire and behavior should be observed. Rehearsals take approximately 1hour.
The Wedding Ceremony
Weddings are a form of worship, where you will exchange vows in the presence of God and ask God to bless your marriage. Everything we do in a wedding service is done with reverence, respect, and with a clear focus on Jesus. All decorations, photography, music, dress and messages should be consistent with Christian worship.
Weddings will only be performed at King of Kings for couples with a valid marriage license from a county within the State of Missouri.
Music
The church uses live organ music for all worship services. We will provide couples with contact information for local organists who are authorized to play at King of Kings and you will meet directly with them to make selections. Other musicians must be approved by the church. All music selections must be pre-approved by the Pastor as appropriate for Christian worship. King of Kings does not use recorded music during worship services.
Flowers & Decorations
Care must be given in the decoration of the church. As in all worship services, the focal point and center of worship is the altar. Flowers may be placed behind the altar and/or each end of the altar. Paraments (linens draping the altar, lectern and pulpit) will be the color of the church year and will not be changed for weddings.
Other decor may include aisle candles, candelabras or pew decorations. These items should be provided by the couple and approved by the church wedding coordinator. Pew decorations may be attached to the pews, but must not harm the finish of the pews. We recommend floral hangers, available from a florist or supply house. Wedding banner and altar candles are provided by the church.
Your church wedding coordinator can assist with placement of and questions regarding decorations.
Photography & Video
Pictures may be taken before and after the service and during the procession and recession. During the service, we ask that your designated photographer take photos from the back of the church, front side or balcony without a flash.
Livestream/Video Recording
King of Kings Stream Team is available to livestream and record your wedding ceremony, depending on availability of staff and volunteers. A member of our technology team will setup and run the livestream that can be shared with family and friends, posted on social media and recorded for the happy couple to watch for years to come. Livestreams can be done as public or private events.
Blessings on your wedding day and your lifetime as husband and wife!