An archdeacon has come out to say that the decision to increase the fees required for church weddings and funerals is the victim of “unfortunate” timing, with fears abounding that people will be even more likely to marry in a registrar’s office as a result.
Members of the Church of England Synod have voted to raise the cost of a church wedding from £296 to £415, over four times the £100 fee for a service in a registry office.
Archdeacon of Loughborough the Ven David Newman said “If people want to have a wedding or funeral in church they will try to seek it out.
“It is unfortunate this decision has come at a difficult economic time.”
He does add that the increases were as a result of churches trying to catch up to fees, stating “Most churches are listed buildings with an enormous upkeep.
“Clergy who are present at funerals and weddings give a lot of time both before and afterwards – it is not just for an hour in church.”
The higher fees now include the cost of lighting and the administration work that goes into a service however there are still other aspects, such as heating and organists, that are not included in the fee.
Income from weddings, baptisms and funerals accounts for £35 million granted to the church every year, of which £15 million is used to pay the clergy.
Rev Lee Francis-Dehqani, vicar of Oakham, concluded “We are very keen that no couple will be priced out of a church wedding.”