Thinking about getting married?
Why not a wedding in a gem among the churches of San Francisco?
St. Matthew’s Lutheran Church in San Francisco, across from historic Mission Dolores along the famous 49 Mile Scenic Drive, offers you a unique location and many possibilities to celebrate the most cherished moment of your life.
The sanctuary provides a well-lighted space for 300 guests surrounded by some of the most beautiful stained glass windows in San Francisco. The window above the altar was a gift of Helene Strybing, who is known to San Franciscans for the Arboretum in Golden Gate Park.
St. Matthew’s is quite well known among Bay Area musicians for the excellent acoustics. Chamber ensembles and choirs often use the sanctuary for their performances, and the pipe organ brings joy to many.
St. Matthew’s is the only Lutheran church in Northern California holding English, German, and bilingual services. Weddings can therefore be tailored to meet your linguistic needs.
Your guests are welcome to use the gated church parking lot. BART and Muni also provide easily accessible public transportation.
Please contact us if you are interested in holding your wedding at St. Matthew’s Lutheran Church: [email protected] OR phone: 415-863-6371 (Wednesdays and Thursdays, 9:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m).
We look forward to hearing from you!
Frequently Asked Questions
The Pastor is available to answer your questions and to help you plan this commemorative occasion and help you prepare a ceremony that fits your distinctive needs. All couples interested in being married or having their relationship blessed at St. Matthew’s must be aware that the St. Matthew’s sanctuary is the sacred space of an active Christian congregation, and appropriate respect for and use of the sacred space is an essential requirement for all couples, their officiates and their guests.
Accessibility
St. Matthew’s is an historic building constructed in 1907. The sanctuary is located on the second floor with a social hall and restrooms on the main floor. There is no elevator or chair lift for the handicapped to access the sanctuary.
May we use our own pastor/priest?
If you prefer using your own officiate, our pastor will work with you to develop the celebration you desire. Our goal is to ensure everyone communicates effectively.
May we use our own musicians?
Our organist, Andrew Birling, will be happy to discuss your musical requests. St. Matthew’s is well-known for its beautiful vocal and instrumental acoustics. You may also use your own musicians.
May we decorate the pews?
The pews may be decorated.
What is the seating capacity?
The seating capacity is 300, including the balcony.
How many pews are on each side?
There are 16 pews on each side of the sanctuary as well as two additional pews on each side along the back wall. The organ loft seats approximately 45.
What are the fees?
The fee of $1200.00 includes the use of the sanctuary for the rehearsal and ceremony, the services of a sexton/assistant and parking for 25 vehicles on weekends. For the services of the Pastor of St. Matthew’s and an organist, please contact the office.
Is a deposit required and how do we reserve a date?
A $500.00 deposit will reserve your wedding and rehearsal dates.
Are photos allowed during the ceremony?
Photos (without flashes) and videos may be taken during the service. We ask that taking pictures is done quietly and discreetly.
Will the church office prepare the service bulletin or is that the responsibility of the couple?
If desired, St. Matthew’s secretary will prepare a bulletin for the ceremony. The couple may also provide their own bulletins.
Is there a meeting area for the bridal party?
The bride and her party may gather in a small meeting room or the Social hall on the main floor of the building.
Important Wedding Links
Office of the County Clerk, San Francisco