Do you have to belong to a church to get married there?

Some churches are truly beautiful but if you are not religious, why would you wish to marry in a church? 

What is it that especially attracts you to a Cathedral or church?

There are many buildings including desanctified churches, old libraries, and historic halls or homes, that have the same aesthetic appeal of an old stone church.

Some of the universities and older courts have beautiful rooms or halls with incredible artwork on the ceilings and stained glass windows, hence you might find what you like, in buildings that are not churches at all. 

There are also some churches, particularly historic buildings, that can be hired for private ceremonies but the decision to allow a ceremony in a sanctified church is made by the priest, minister, church council, or building managers. If it is an operational church, you might be required to attend religious marriage preparation classes and sign agreements consistent with religious belief.

So the answer is a strong 'maybe' but you will have to inquire at the location

It is not mandatory but you will need to speak with the priest.
Some churches will only wed their parishioners,

Some churches will only marry those of their own faith
Some churches will allow civil services 
Or you can get a religious type service in a park or garden from a civil celebrant

It will depend on the Priest or Minister.

There's no one set rule.

Some cathedrals will want you to follow some lessons, others will permit you to marry, whilst some won't.

I think the best advice would be to make an appointment to speak with the Priest or Minister.

Some places will allow a Celebrant to work alongside the Priest or Minister.

Aren't there some beautiful Cathedrals around!

It depends on the church. Some denominations are not be as strict as others.  I have known couples who took their own minister into a church they liked for the wedding, and other churches are open to having a celebrant come in.  The cathedrals may be trickier.

Hi,

You would need to contact the church as they all have different rules but generally you would need to have a religious service performed by a priest. The exception would be if the church had been deconsecrated and was open to non-religious ceremonies.

Have a wonderful day!

All the best

Philip Holland

Sydney Celebrant

Yes you can have your wedding in a church or chathedral without belonging to it, however you still have to have a religious service with the resident priest. The prices vary according to the church. However there are some decommissioned churches where I have been allowed to be the celebrant at weddings before. The Cathedral at the Police accademy in Mount Waverley is amazing and you can hold non religious ceremonies there. Also the old St Martin's chapel in Belgrave is a decommisioned church where you can hold weddings. If you want something that looks like a church but isn't a practicing church, have a look at Montsalvat in Eltham or the Abbortsford convent. Good luck!