The Reverend John Oliver is available for weddings throughout the year.   Below is a list of questions he is asked.  If you have additional questions, you are welcome to e-mail him, or speak with him directly if you like.

Frequently asked questions

What is your background?
I was ordained a catholic priest in 1982.  After 8 1/2 years, I left the active ministry to pursue my studies in psychology.  I earned a Ph.D. in Psychology, specializing in couples communication and sexuality. In 2001 I returned to the ministry as pastor of St. Philip Neri Church.

Do you offer premarital preparation?
I offer a host of instruments that measure 43 areas of a couples’ relationship.  I also provide a personality instrument and a number of other measures that help us identify the strengths of your love relationship and potential problem issues for your married life.

Are you set on what kinds of ceremonies you witness?  No.  I believe it is your wedding.  You both get to celebrate it in the way that is most meaningful to you.  I have celebrated with couples on the beach, in gardens, at their homes, at the Ribault Club, the Ritz Carlton, and numerous other sites around Jacksonville for the past 25 years.  I also celebrate religious weddings for those who wish to honor their religious traditions (I usually wear all the priestly vestments).  I also celebrate weddings that have a limited religious element to them.  A simple blessing or invocation might be appropriate for your wedding.  Some weddings are purely secular (in which case I wear a suit and tie).  I have no agenda.  Celebrate as you wish.  We will sit down together and discuss all the particulars.

What do you charge?
I ask that you make a donation to St. Philip Neri Ecumenical Church.  If we are doing marriage prep as well as a ceremony, I ask you consider the cost of time and effort when considering your donations.  For ceremonies, many donate $300.00 – $500.00.  Couples add more for marriage preparation and ceremonies.

How soon should we contact you?
As soon as you have a date.  This could be a year ahead.  Some people ask within a few weeks if I am available.  There is always a chance I am, so ask.  The likelihood I am available increases with long-range planning.