Weddings at Immanuel
Planning a Christian wedding in our church, one step at a time
A wedding at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Joplin is a worship service. A man and a woman make their promises before God, and the church prays for their marriage. Most couples married here are members of Immanuel. Friends and family of our members are also welcome to talk with Pastor about being married here.
Every wedding here begins with a conversation with our pastor, Pastor Christopher Ramstad. He meets with each couple. He gets to know you and walks with you as you prepare.
This page explains how that works. If you have a question it doesn’t answer, call the church office at (417) 624-0333. We are glad to hear from you.
How to plan your wedding at Immanuel
Call the church office
Call (417) 624-0333 as early as you can. The office will check the date and set up a first meeting.
Meet with Pastor
Pastor meets with every couple to get to know you and talk through the wedding. He decides on each wedding after that first visit.
Premarital counseling
Every couple meets with Pastor for several sessions of premarital counseling. It prepares you for the marriage, not only the wedding day.
Plan the service and music
Pastor helps you choose the readings and hymns. Our organist can help with the music.
Rehearsal
Pastor leads a rehearsal, usually the day before. Everyone learns where to stand and when to walk.
Your wedding day
You are married before God and the people who love you. A reception can follow in our Fellowship Hall.
The wedding service
Our wedding service comes from the Lutheran Service Book, the hymnal in our pews. It has Scripture readings, hymns and a short sermon. Then come the vows and rings, prayers for the two of you and a blessing.
Because the wedding is a worship service, sacred music fits it best. There is some room for other music too. Pastor approves the music, and our organist is glad to help you choose.
So they are no longer two but one flesh. What therefore God has joined together, let not man separate.
Mark 10:8–9 (ESV)
Good to know as you plan
Our Altar Guild helps get the sanctuary ready for each wedding. These are the women who care for the altar and prepare our church for worship. A few things are helpful to know early, as you talk with your florist and photographer.
- Paraments. The paraments, the cloths that hang on the altar and pulpit, stay in the color of the church season. White is also an option.
- Flowers. Flowers go on stands. Nothing goes on the altar or the candle holders.
- Pew bows. The church has twelve white satin pew bows you are welcome to use.
- Rice and birdseed. Please don’t use rice or birdseed inside or outside the church.
- Photos. Your photographer is welcome. We ask guests to save their pictures for before and after the ceremony.
The church office will give you our full wedding guidelines when you book.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do we need to be members of Immanuel?
Most couples married here are members. If you are a friend or family member of someone at Immanuel, you are welcome to talk with Pastor about it. Start by calling the church office.
What does the Lutheran Church teach about marriage?
We believe marriage is a gift from God. It is the lifelong union of one man and one woman, as Jesus teaches in Matthew 19. Pastor will talk this through with you. He is glad to answer your questions. You can read more on our What We Believe page.
Can another pastor lead our wedding?
Weddings at Immanuel are led by our pastor. Another Lutheran pastor may lead your wedding, in consultation with Pastor Ramstad.
Can we hold our reception at the church?
Yes. Receptions can be held in our Fellowship Hall, and sometimes in the gym. The church office can tell you what is open on your date.
Can our wedding be livestreamed?
Yes, on request. Just let the church office know when you plan your service.
What does a wedding at Immanuel cost?
The church office will share the current fees with you. These include cleaning fees for the church and the Fellowship Hall.
Can we renew our vows or mark an anniversary?
Yes. Pastor is glad to lead a vow renewal or an anniversary blessing. Call the church office at (417) 624-0333 to talk about it.
Start with a conversation
Call the church office at (417) 624-0333. We will find a time for you to meet Pastor.
More at Immanuel Lutheran
- Sunday Services — 8:00 and 10:30, with Bible class at 9:15
- What to Expect — a walk through a Sunday morning here
- What We Believe — the Lutheran faith in plain words
- Altar Guild — the women who prepare the altar for worship
- Women’s Ministry — the LWML, Altar Guild and Ladies Lunch
- All Ministries — youth, children, Bible study and more
- Church calendar — everything happening at Immanuel
Immanuel Lutheran Church is a congregation of The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod, 2616 S Connecticut Ave, Joplin, MO 64804. Home of Martin Luther School.