We’re pleased that you’ve requested Rev. Joseph Fortunato to perform your wedding ceremony. Our focus is on you as a couple and on your lives together in the future. The Bible says that God recognizes the marriage between a man and a woman as a binding and sacred covenant. In obedience to the Word of God, and being accountable to God in blessing your union, Rev. Joseph Fortunato has established certain conditions that must be met prior to performing your wedding. Our hope is that all weddings performed will be followed by strong marriages, able to withstand any circumstance that would attempt to destroy such a powerful union.
In light of this, please review the following three requirements carefully:
1. Both individuals must attend the Pre-Marital Counseling Sessions given by Rev. Fortunato.
2. After meeting with both individuals, Rev. Fortunato must provide a favorable recommendation for marriage.
3. Both individuals must complete a Temperament Analysis Profile (TAP). See details below.
In order to accommodate you in preparation for one of the most special days of your life, some practical guidelines and conditions must be adhered to, prior to Rev. Fortunato performing your wedding ceremony. Please read the following in its entirety.
Wedding Application
Please complete and submit the Wedding Application. Once the application is received along with the required fees, if approved, a wedding date will be secured.
Pre-Marital Counseling
Once you have received confirmation that your wedding date is available, both the bride and groom are required to complete four pre-marital counseling sessions prior to the wedding ceremony. You will be contacted by the church office to schedule your sessions. In the meantime, please complete and submit the Bride and Groom Questionnaire prior to your first pre-marital counseling session. A separate questionnaire must be completed by each the Bride and the Groom.
Temperament Analysis Profile
The Temperament Analysis Profile (TAP) is a summary designed to provide you with an in-depth look at your God-given temperament. Knowing your temperament allows you to be more aware of your tendencies, needs, strengths, and weaknesses. This information is vital in preparation for marriage. Pastor Joe will guide you through the TAP at your first pre-marital counseling session. A processing fee of $70.00 per couple is required, which can be paid along with your Wedding Ceremony Application deposit (see below).
Marriage License and Marriage Certificate
It is your responsibility to obtain the Marriage License through the municipality where the wedding will be held. Be sure to bring your Marriage License to the rehearsal and give it to Pastor Joe at that time. Your license will be processed within five business days after your wedding and sent to the proper authorities. Rev. Fortunato will also provide you with a Certificate of Marriage signed the day of your wedding by the Pastor and two witnesses.
The Officiant Fee
The cost for counseling, overseeing the rehearsal, and officiating your wedding ceremony is $500.00. Please click on the button to the upper right to pay the deposit of $200.00 along with the fee for the TAP. Payment must be made at the time you submit your application in order to secure a date. The remaining $300.00 is due one week before the wedding.
Refund and Cancellation
In the event that you should decide to cancel your arrangements with Rev. Fortunato, a written cancellation notice is required 90 days prior to your wedding date in order to receive a full deposit refund. For cancellations made less than 90 days prior to your wedding date, the deposit will not be refunded.
Ceremony Worksheet
During the final pre-marital counseling session, you will be required to bring a completed Ceremony Worksheet so that all aspects of the rehearsal and ceremony can be discussed in detail.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact Natalie at nfortunato@faithfellowshipministries.net or 856-845-4500, and she will be glad to assist you.