Should ministers be paid for wedding ceremonies? What if these services are for nonmembers? Is this “charging for the sacraments”? What about the time offered to the couple in question above and beyond other duties? Where should the church draw the line, or the fee, on this question? The Sacramento Bee online has merely scratched the surface on a topic in need of some discussion:
Clergy pay for wedding — or is it a gift? — a sensitive topic
From the Sacramento Bee online
Soon after they say, “I do,” most couples face the first financial dilemma of their marriage: How much to pay the minister who performed the wedding ceremony?
Many, like Javier Moreno and Rosie Gonzalez of West Sacramento, are unsure what to do.
“Some people told me that it would offend the priest, and other people told me they expect it,” said Gonzalez, who is planning – and budgeting for – her November wedding.
Wedding season is here, and whether it’s called giving a tip or giving a stipend or making a donation, most couples expect to offer a gift to the clergy.
Faith leaders know there is confusion.
. . .
The Right Rev. Barry Beisner, leader of the Episcopal Diocese of Northern California based in Sacramento, said no diocesan policy states what clergy can charge for weddings.
“It is up to each individual clergy person as to whether they are paid something beyond their usual salary.”
Often, clergy members do not keep money that is donated to them.
What say ye?