Say “I Do” at Philadelphia’s new historic wedding venue, Riverside Weddings at Gloria Dei. Walk down the aisle following the footsteps of Philadelphia’s own Betsy Ross and countless other couples since 1700. Capture your unique moments in our park-like setting surrounded by nature. Gloria Dei works as an intimate wedding chapel for 20 and is the perfect size for up to 150!
Choose from a classic Episcopal ceremony or a ceremony with your own officiant.
All traditions welcome!
In Pennsylvania, a self-uniting marriage license offers couples an option for the wedding of their dreams. We invite you to bring your own officiant or clergy to Gloria Dei Church.
Ceremony Options
Classic Episcopal Wedding:
Are you looking for a traditional Episcopal wedding? Our ceremony follows the Canons of the Diocese of Pennsylvania and the Book of Common Prayer. You do not need to be Episcopalian to be married in this tradition, but one partner must be a baptized Christian, and couples are expected to attend 2-3 Sunday services prior to the wedding. You will meet with the rector for pre-marital counseling and to plan your ceremony. No weddings will be conducted during Lent. Episcopal weddings must be booked at least three months in advance (6 months for re-marriages). Couples married at Gloria Dei are also invited to renew their vows at our annual Valentine’s Day Service.
This package includes:
- Use of Gloria Dei Church for the wedding ceremony and rehearsal
- 3 premarital counseling sessions with our Rector
- Pre-wedding planning meetings and the assistance of our Gloria Dei Wedding Coordinator
- Rehearsal and ceremony with clergy
- Organist for ceremony
- Pre-and post event cleaning fees
Fees: $2500
All Other Traditions:
Are you looking for a beautiful historic space to create your own unique wedding ceremony? Riverside Weddings at Gloria Dei allows you the flexibility to create your ideal ceremony. Please contact our Wedding Specialist for more information.
This package includes:
- Use of Gloria Dei Church for the wedding ceremony and rehearsal
- Pre-wedding planning meetings and the assistance of our Gloria Dei Wedding Coordinator
- Organist for ceremony
- Pre-and post event cleaning fees
Fees: $2000
About Gloria Dei
(Old Swedes’)
Church
Gloria Dei is an inclusive, vibrant and historic congregation located in the Queen Village neighborhood of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. All are welcome here.
Surrounded by an idyllic National Park, this campus of beauty and tranquility, combined with free parking, in a South Philadelphia location, makes the ideal spot for weddings and celebrations. The church holds up to 150 guests for your ceremony. Adjacent Riverside Hall holds up to 50 guests for a seated reception and our parking area has space for a tented reception for up to 75 guests.
Photo Gallery
Create your ideal wedding experience!
Ready to Learn More and Reserve Your Day?
For information on renting Gloria Dei Church or Riverside Hall for concerts, birthday parties, lectures, or other gatherings, please visit our Events page.
“This inner city oasis was the perfect spot for our daughter’s wedding. Romance and beauty abounds in a garden like setting, surrounded by historic buildings. What better way to begin a marriage than in a church that has stood for over 300 years!”
“It was so easy to work with the staff at Gloria Dei to make our daughter’s wedding a perfect occasion! We were blessed with clear skies and loved being able to photograph our family and guests in the historic Gloria Dei churchyard.”