Weddings
We invite you to celebrate the sacrament of marriage at the historic First Presbyterian Church of Hartford. We welcome interfaith services, same-sex weddings, and flexible use of our sacred spaces. Pastor Nancy officiates weddings by virtue of her ordination as a Presbyterian (USA) Minister of Word and Sacrament. However, the church is also available to rent and other ordained clergy may preside.
The hammer-beam trusses, original wooden pews, stained glass windows, and gleaming hardwood paneling of our Sanctuary create a stunning backdrop for a romantic and unforgettable ceremony.
The current church sanctuary dates from 1870 and is attributed to architects Renwick & Sands, who designed many notable buildings in the late 1800s, including the Smithsonian Institution building in Washington, D.C., and St. Patrick’s Cathedral in New York City.
The building is made of Vermont granite with a trim of Portland brownstone in a blending of Gothic and Romanesque architecture. Please note that the pews are in fact movable. We can work with you to position them in a way that makes sense to you for your celebration.
For more information about room capacity and rental policies, visit our Rentals page, and to connect with Pastor Nancy about officiating, please email her at pastor@firstpreshartford.org.
Our policy regarding outside officiants: Online ordination unaffiliated with a church or denomination is not sufficient to approve someone as an officiant for a service at the church. A friend or family member with online ordination may assist in the wedding service, but a minister who is ordained by and serving (or having served) in a congregation is required as the officiant for the service.
Funerals
Our church plays an active role in ministering to people during all life transitions, including services upon the loss of a loved one. You do not need to be a member of our church to celebrate the life of a loved one here. Pastor Nancy has officiated funerals for nearly two decades, and offers pastoral care, and helpful and timely communication with your family and whichever funeral home with whom you are working.
At FPCH, you can be sure that you will find support and a meaningful service of worship. For more information about hosting a Funeral, Memorial Service, or Graveside Service, please contact our office Manager at office@firstpreshartford.org, or reach out to Pastor Nancy at pastor@firstpreshartford.org.