Wedding celebrations shared with community

Father Tim Tregunno and Miss Frances Boxer, who married at Christchurch & St Mary Magdalen, St Leonards on Sea, chose to share their special day with as many of the congregation as possible.

Taking their inspiration from the bible, in thanksgiving of their marriage, a quote from John 2: I '“ II, in which Jesus changes water into wine at a wedding in Galileee:

"He thus revealed His glory and His disciples put their faith in Him." And, printed on the congregation's invitations was a colourful depiction of the scene and the words: "There was a wedding at Cana in Galilee."

Tim and Frances's wedding saw many church dignitaries both performing the ceremony and attending the service.

The nuptial mass was taken by Principle Celebrant Rector of Christchurch, The Right Reverend Roger Jupp, Marriage Celebrant The Reverend Tony Oulton and Preacher The Reverend Canon Trevor Buxton from All Saints church, Sidley.

During the signing of the Registers, the congregation enjoyed singing performed by children from the choirs at Christ Church CE primary school.

Father Tim, who is Assistant Curate at Christchurch, said the couple wanted to share their joy with others, and with the economic downturn and the problems the local area has suffered of late he believed that inviting the congregation to the wedding was a good way to help build community spirit.

He said: "We wanted to welcome everyone to share in our joy. The church in the community and opening doors, letting everyone in, is gospel based. The area is going through a very difficult time with the economic downturn and so many local businesses closing down, and it's good to build the community up. People have been very supportive and many local people have contributed to our special day."

Frances was born in Eastbourne and has lived in Sidley for approximately ten years. She is a teacher at St Peter & St Paul's primary school in Bexhill.

Frances met Father Tim two years ago whilst on a youth pilgrimage to Walsingham with Sidley's All Saints Children & Youth group.

Following the marriage ceremony the joyous occasion continued throughout the afternoon with the wedding party, held in the church's courtyard. And the community spirit was evident with bunting supplied by parishioners, delicious home-made food and drinks for the buffet prepared and served by 'Smiths', and live music performed by the Bohemia Ukulele Band.

An evening reception for family and friends was held at The Place hotel and brasserie in Camber Sands.