Life Events
Weddings, Baptism and funerals
At St James Hatcham, we support people through all of life's milestones.
If you live in the parish of St James, have close pastoral connection with this church, or regularly attend services here, then please contact us about services of wedding, baptism or confirmation.
If you would like one of the clergy to take a funeral service, whether at St James church, at the crematorium or cemetery, please contact us, and let your funeral director know that St James Hatcham is your chosen church.
We are also available for general pastoral support in every season of life.
Getting married at St James
Congratulations on your forthcoming marriage! If you live in the parish of St James Church, have a close pastoral connection with this church, or regularly attend services here then please contact us about having your wedding here.
Qualifying connections
Following the guidelines set by the Church of England, we welcome marriage service inquiries from couples with a close pastoral connection to this church. Qualifying connections include that one of you:
- was baptised or prepared for confirmation in the parish of St James
- has, at any time, lived in the parish of St James for at least 6 months
- has regularly attended our church services for at least 6 months, and you are on the electoral roll.
More information about qualifying connections is available here.
The electoral roll is our membership list and is made up of those who worship here regularly. People can join the electoral roll once they have attended St James Church regularly for six months, and if they intend to continue doing so.
Initial enquiries can be made to the church office, 07939812253 or info@stjameshatcham.org
What to bring with you
• Proof of ID - a passport or full driving licence
• Proof of address- driving licence or utility bill (within 3 months)
• Any specific documents required - your decree absolute if you have been divorced or your marriage certificate if you would like a Wedding Blessing.
• To secure the booking, we require a deposit of £200 (non-refundable in the case of cancellation).
Music
If you require an organist and/or choir please make an appointment with Ben Newlove, Director of Music, to discuss the musical aspect of your wedding. Meetings can take place on Sundays at 12.30pm. Please arrange a date and time by contacting our operations manager directly info@stjameshatcham.org.
Changes to Marriage Law 2021
From 4 May 2021, changes will be introduced in England & Wales that affects how marriages are registered.
Marriages will remain a verbal contract, formed when you say the legal words to each other in the presence of your witnesses and the vicar. At the end of the ceremony you will no longer sign the marriage register. Instead you will sign a marriage document, or schedule, which will be used to enter the information onto an electronic register. Marriage certificates are now only issued by the borough Register office.
With the new changes, all parents details can be included.
Charges for weddings and marriage blessings
These fall into two categories: statutory fees required by the Church of England and charges for music etc which are at the discretion of the local church. Statutory fees do not apply to marriage blessings.
Statutory fees - from January 2025 Publication of banns of marriage: £37.00
Marriage service: £544.00
Verger (including registers/certificate): £65.00
Certificate of banns (if required): £56.00
Local charges
Music Deposit: £150.00*
Organist: £203.40
Donations:
We ask for a donation, if you are able to do so, of £250.00 towards the costs of heating, lighting, cleaning and upkeep of the historic fabric of this famous church. We ask you to Gift Aid this separately from the other charges. For every £100 you give, we can claim, as a charitable body, another £25 from the government in reclaimed tax. Cheques are to be made payable to St James PCC.
Funerals and bereavement
The death of a loved one can be an extremely difficult time, especially for those who do not have a great deal of other support. We believe that our Christian faith provides a wealth of hope and encouragement to those who are bereaved and we are always available to offer support, comfort and prayer.
Graceful Funerals is a small, family-run funeral director here to support you with care, professionalism and compassion. When a loved one dies, things can feel overwhelming, and having calm, clear guidance can make a real difference. contact them here: liz@gracefulfunerals.london or 02034890492
As an independent, family-led team, you are supported by one dedicated funeral director throughout. You are never passed from person to person, and have someone who listens, understands your wishes and guides you through each step.
We believe that dignified, personal funeral care should be accessible to everyone. Our prices are clear and genuinely cost-effective, while still offering the highest level of respect and professionalism.
Many people tell us they feel relieved to find a funeral director who is both
compassionate and transparent. Our families value our commitment to creating
farewells that truly reflect the person who has died, recognising that every life is unique and deserves to be honoured in a meaningful way.
Our promise is simple: professional care, genuine compassion and affordable support for you, whenever you need us.
