I have heard horror stories of couples that did not give the church an acceptable amount of money for their service and it showed in the service itself. I would rather give too much than not enough, but my fiance and I are paying for everything ourselves so we are on a budget. Hope someone has some good advice! Thanks!
2007-02-15 06:27:30 · 5 answers · asked by julieaferris 1 in Society & Culture ➔ Etiquette
First of all, the stipend is paid to the priest or deacon AFTER the ceremony...so there would be no "reflection" in the quality of the ceremony.
The church should provide you with a booklet that details the traditional stipends, honorarium (for soloists), and bench fees (organist) in their area....also what is and is not acceptable as far as wedding attire, music, decorations, etc. It's different at every parish.
A word of warning- avoid strapless dresses. A priest friend of mine is constantly horrfied by the brides coming down the aisle having to hike up their dresses.
2007-02-16 08:35:52 · answer #1 · answered by Mommy_to_seven 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
When I got married 3 years ago, we didn't pay the priest until at the wedding reception ($100). We got married in a multi-faith chapel, so that fee was separate. That way, you don't have to worry about the quality of the ceremony if you didn't give enough, as the ceremony is over by that time.
2007-02-15 15:20:21 · answer #2 · answered by AJewel_3469 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Is the priest's fee covered in the fee that you gave to the church for your ceremony? If not, I suggest $50-$100. I am not sure what the going rate is now. When I was married in 1988, at my church, the priest's fee was included in the fee we paid the church for the ceremony.
We paid the organist and soloist separately.
I hope my advice helps.
Another suggestion is call around to other Catholic churches in your area and ask what the "going" fee is.
2007-02-15 14:33:12 · answer #3 · answered by Lizzie 5 · 1⤊ 0⤋
I would give the priest personally $150-200.
As for church fee, ask the secretary. Not sure it could vary.
This is a special occasion for you both, and the priest will perform it just once in your life. He works and he has bills to pay, and doesn't get paid very much. So make the most out of it and he will be happier to see you in the future.
2007-02-15 15:55:43 · answer #4 · answered by Born Valentine's Day 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Some churches charge upfront if you are not a member. If no charge put in place, then give $50-$150 to the pastor. Keep in mind they have to provide electricity, heat and time.
2007-02-15 14:34:48 · answer #5 · answered by Apple21 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋