a service of the Spiritual Growth
Fellowship
a
church of The Sovereign Holy Order of Saint Raphael
Beautiful,
Meaningful & Memorable
Romantic
Personal Wedding Ceremonies You’ll Remember Forever
The Most Reverend Doctor Charles E. Million, D.D.
12 Lake Forest Court West - Saint Charles, MO 63301
Phone:636-925-1703 Or:314-965-5648 Toll Free: 888-521-8146 Cell:314-503-4727 Fax:636-724-1325
Have you ever turned down a couples
invitation to perform a wedding ceremony and why did you turn them down?
I was approached by two women who
wanted a ceremony. I was agreeable to
performing a ceremony. I did explain that since Missouri does not honor same
sex marriages it would not be legally recognized. The woman on the phone said she understood
that.
We planned out the tone of the
ceremony, what rituals they were interested in having me perform , the types of
vows, procession et al.
I sent her an agreement for a Commitment
Covenant Ceremony. I received a call
from both women who expressed their displeasure that they wanted the agreement
and the ceremony text to use the word "Marriage."
I explained that Missouri law
contained a specific provision against using the word "Marriage" in a
same sex ceremony and penalties included fines and the loss of my right to
perform marriages in Missouri. The
insisted that the wanted the ceremony text to use the word
"Marriage."
I respectfully declined to perform
the ceremony.
I respect the right of same sex
couples to marry and am happy to work with them so their special day is
everything they want it to be. Now Illinois recognizes same sex marriages.
I am pleased to offer services to
same sex couples. I f Missouri same sex
couples wish a ceremony, I can perform a Commitment Covenant in Missouri or a
marriage ceremony in Illinois.
Illinois same sex couples, I am happy
to work with you on your marriage ceremony.
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