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Star Wars themed church wedding for Pontypridd superfans

Written by Gavin on 4th October 2022

A Pontypridd couple tied-the knot in a Star Wars themed church wedding led by Rev Charlotte Rushton dressed as Kylo Ren – son of Han Solo and Princess Leia.

This wedding ceremony had a bit of the ‘dark side’ about it. Credit: Church in Wales

St Catherine’s Church, Pontypridd was transformed from a tradition Anglican church into a Star Wars inspired setting for the wedding of superfans Tina and Kevin Rankin. Leading the service was Star Wars fan Rev Charlotte who agreed to preside at the wedding on one condition – that she dresses up as The Force Awakens character Kylo Ren.

“Kylo Ren” AKA Rev Charlotte Rushton marrying Tina and Kevin Rankin. Credit: Church in Wales

Rev Charlotte says,

“Being a massive Star Wars fan myself, there was never any danger of me saying no this wedding. Tina and Kev were married almost 20 years ago in a registry office, and they especially wanted God’s blessing upon their marriage, which I was delighted to give. The whole day was full of fun and laughter. When Jesus talked about the fullness of life, I think that he was referring to days like this.

“Even though we had fun and suspended reality to live in the Star Wars word for a short while, Jesus was at the centre of it all – just as he should be”

Stormtroopers were on hand to keep guard at the ceremony. Credit: Church in Wales

Kevin is a member of the UK Garrison of the 501 Legion, an international Star Wars fan organisation. Their members describe themselves as ‘Bad Guys Doing Good’ as members dress as the bad guys from the Galactic Empire to raise funds for charity. The Garrison form a huge part of Tina and Kevin’s lives, and they were keen to include them in their wedding blessing.

Tina said:

“We are thankful for everyone at St Catherine’s for helping us renew our wedding vows in a style which reflected not only our faith, but also our personalities and hobbies as well.

“The whole day was full of joy and merriment. It was definitely a day no one will forget. We feel really blessed.”

lt’s not everyday that a Wookie is a guest at your wedding. Credit: Church in Wales

The Garrison are available for hire and 100% of their fee is donated to charity. If you fancy a storm trooper at your wedding, in a galaxy far, far away, visit them at https://www.ukgarrison.co.uk/501st-uk-garrison.html