Special services

Supporting you through life's important moments

We are honoured to support people through life's most significant moments. Whether you are celebrating a new beginning, affirming your faith, or saying goodbye to a loved one, our Chaplain is here to offer prayer, guidance, and pastoral care.

Below you'll find more information about our special services and answers to some frequently asked questions.

WEDDING | BAPTISM & CONFIRMATION | FUNERALS

Wedding

A church wedding or service of blessing is a beautiful way to celebrate your commitment before God, your family, and your friends.

In the Netherlands, marriages are legally conducted through a civil ceremony. Many couples then choose to celebrate their marriage with a service of blessing in church. Every couple's circumstances are different, and we encourage you to speak with our Chaplain to discuss your plans.

Wedding Frequently Asked Questions

1 We're not members of the Anglican Church. Can we still marry here?

Yes. We welcome enquiries from both members of our congregation and those from other Christian denominations. Every enquiry is considered individually, and our Chaplain will be pleased to discuss your circumstances.

2 Can we have our legal marriage ceremony at St Mary's?

No. Under Dutch law, legal marriages take place through the civil municipality. St Mary's Chapel is available for a Christian wedding service or blessing following the civil ceremony.

3 Can divorced people marry at St Mary's?

The Church of England recognises that every situation is unique. In some circumstances, it is possible to marry in church after divorce. Our Chaplain will be happy to discuss your individual situation in confidence.

4 How early should we contact the church?

We recommend contacting us as early as possible—ideally several months before your preferred date—to discuss availability and begin planning your service.

5 Can we personalise our wedding service?

Yes. Your wedding service will follow the Anglican tradition, but there are opportunities to choose readings, hymns, music, and involve family or friends in the service. Our Chaplain will help you plan a service that is both meaningful and personal. This is consistent with Church of England practice.

Baptism & Confirmation

Baptism and Confirmation are important milestones in the Christian journey. They are outward signs of God's love and grace, marking a lifelong relationship with Christ and a commitment to grow in faith within the Church.

Baptism is a joyful celebration that welcomes children and adults into the Christian family. Confirmation is an opportunity for those who have been baptised to publicly affirm their faith and renew the promises made at their baptism, as they continue their journey with God.

Whether you are considering baptism for yourself or your child, or would like to explore confirmation, we would be delighted to talk with you. Our Chaplain will guide you through the meaning of these services, answer your questions, and help you prepare for this special step in your life of faith.

Baptism & Confirmation

Frequently Asked Questions

1 Who can be baptised?

Both children and adults can be baptised. Baptism is open to anyone who wishes to begin or continue their journey of faith in Christ.

2 What is Confirmation?

Confirmation is a public affirmation of faith for those who have been baptised. During the service, the bishop prays for candidates as they reaffirm their baptismal promises and commit themselves to following Christ.

3 Can my child be baptised if we do not regularly attend church?

We welcome conversations with all families considering baptism. Our Chaplain will be pleased to discuss your circumstances, the meaning of baptism, and how we can support you as a family.

4 Who can be a godparent?

Godparents play an important role in encouraging and supporting a child in the Christian faith. We recommend choosing baptised Christians who are willing to take on this responsibility. If you have questions about choosing godparents, our Chaplain will be happy to advise you.

5 Not sure whether Baptism or Confirmation is right for you?

We'd be happy to have an informal conversation. Whether you're exploring the Christian faith, considering baptism for your child, or thinking about confirmation, there's no obligation—just an opportunity to ask questions and learn more.

Funerals

Losing someone you love is never easy. We are here to offer Christian comfort, prayer, and support during times of grief.

A funeral service gives family and friends the opportunity to express grief, give thanks for a person's life, and commend them into God's loving care. Services may be held at St Mary's Chapel, a cemetery, or a crematorium, depending on your wishes and circumstances. We will help you plan a service that reflects the life of your loved one with dignity and compassion.

Funerals Frequently Asked Questions

1 Can a funeral be held at St Mary's?

Yes. Funeral services may be held at St Mary's Chapel, or where appropriate, at a cemetery or crematorium.

2 Does the person need to have been a member of the church?

No. We believe everyone deserves a dignified Christian funeral. Our Chaplain is willing to support families even if the deceased did not regularly attend church.

3 Can we personalise the service?

Yes. While the Church of England provides a recognised order of service, there is room to include personal memories, chosen hymns, readings, music, and tributes that reflect the life of your loved one.

4 What support does the church offer after a funeral?

We are here not only to conduct the funeral service, but also to offer prayer, conversation, and pastoral support during a difficult time.

Get in touch

If you are considering a wedding, baptism, funeral, or another special service, we would be delighted to hear from you.

Every person's circumstances are unique, and many questions can best be answered through a conversation. Please get in touch to arrange a meeting with our Chaplain.