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Create a beautiful ceremony
that you will treasure.

Call to discuss your wedding:
513 853 6180 (Pastor's Office)
800 825 4332 Toll-Free
859 757 4062 Kentucky
937 506 5001 Dayton area

Pastor Eastman:
Pastor@MarriageChaplain.com
Text/cell: 513 703 8196

Wedding Ceremonies

Click below to jump to each ceremony.

• Ceremony Two

• Ceremony Three

• Ceremony Four

• Ceremony Five

• Ceremony Six

• Ceremony Seven

• Ceremony Nine

• Ceremony Eleven

• Ceremony Twelve


• Ceremony Fourteen


• Ceremony Fifteen

• Ceremony Nineteen

• Ceremony Twenty

• Ceremony Twenty-One

Marriage Service Two

The parties standing before the minister, the man
at the woman's right hand, and after prayer, or
such other exercises as may be had, the minister shall say: If it be your intention to take each other
as husband and wife, you will manifest it by uniting your right hands.

This being done, he shall say to the man: You now take this woman, whose hand you hold, to be your lawful wedded wife. Do you solemnly promise, before God and these witnesses, that you will love, honor, and cherish her; and that, forsaking all others for her alone, you will faithfully perform to her all the duties which a husband owes to a wife, so long as you both shall live? He answers, I do.

Then to the woman: Your mutual affection and fidelity; a memorial of this sacred service, and of the holy bonds of marriage, by which you are bound henceforth till death shall separate you. As you have thus solemnly agreed before God and these witness-es, I pronounce you lawfully married husband and wife. May Divine favor crown this union and your future lives, with all temporal and spiritual blessings
in Christ Jesus our Savior, and bring you to the
life everlasting. Amen.

You now take this man, whose hand you hold, to be your lawful wedded husband. Do you solemnly pro-mise, before God and these witnesses, that you will love, honor and cherish him; and that, forsaking all others for him alone, you will faithfully perform the sacred vows you have now made? She answers, I do.

He then returns the ring to the man, directing him to place it on the hand of the woman. (This part of the service to be repeated if a second ring is used) After which, he says: Let this be the seal of your plighted faith, and of your mutual affection and fidelity; a memorial of this sacred service, and of the holy bonds of marriage, by which you are bound hence-forth till death shall separate you.

As you have thus solemnly agreed before God and these witnesses, I pronounce you lawfully married husband and wife. May Divine favor crown this union and your future lives, with all temporal and spiritual blessings in Jesus Christ our Savior, and bring you to the life everlasting. Amen.

Marriage Service Three

Pastor Eastman's Favorite

The parties standing before the minister, he shall say: Marriage is a joyous occasion. It is connected in our thoughts with the charm of home, and with all that is pleasant and attractive in the tenderest and most sacred relations of life.

When celebrated in Cana of Galilee, it was sanctioned and cheered by the presence of the Lord himself;
and is declared by an inspired apostle to be honor-able in all.

And now, if you ________ and ________ have at present appeared for the purpose of being joined in legal wedlock, you will please to signify this intention, by uniting your right hands.

The minister shall say to the man: Do you take the woman whom you now hold by the hand, to be your lawful wedded wife? Answer, I do; or assent. Do you promise to love and cherish her, in sickness and in health, for richer or for poorer, for better or for worse, and forsaking all others keep thee only
unto her, so long as you both shall live?
Answer, I do; or assent.

Then to the woman: Do you take the man who now stands by your side and who holds you by the hand, to be your lawful and wedded husband? Answer, I do; or assent. Do you promise, to love and cherish him, in sickness and in health, for richer or for poorer, for better or for worse, and forsaking all others, keep thee only unto him, so long as you both shall live? Answer, I do; or assent.

You mutually promise in the presence of God, and of these witnesses, that you will at all times and in all circumstances, conduct yourselves toward one another as becometh Husband and Wife? Both answer, I do; or assent. That you will love, cherish and adhere to one another until separated by death? Both answer, I do; or assent.

If a ring is used, the minister will say to the bridegroom: You will please place this ring on the hand of your affianced Bride… and reunite your hands. If a second ring is to be given, a similar construction will be given to the Bride.

He shall continue: Having taken these pledges of affection and vows of fidelity, I do therefore, by the authority of the laws of this State, sanctioned by divine authority, pronounce you ________ and ________ lawfully married, Husband and Wife; in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen. What, therefore, God hath joined together, let no one put asunder. Prayer.

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Marriage Service Four

Opening: Greeting to guest and Pastor's homily

Reading: "Blessing of Hands"

These are the hands of your best friend, young and strong and full of love for you, that are holding yours on your wedding day as you promise to love each other today, tomorrow, and forever. These are the hands that will work alongside yours, as together you build your future. These are the hands that will passionately love you and cherish you through the years, and with the slightest touch, will comfort you like no other. These are the hands that will hold you when fear or grief fills your mind. These are the hands that will countless times wipe the tears from your eyes; tears of sorrow, and tears of joy. These are the hands that will tenderly hold your children. These are the hands that will help you to hold your family as one. These are the hands that will give you strength when you need it. And lastly, these are the hands that even when wrinkled and aged, will still be reaching for yours, still giving you the same unspoken tenderness with just a touch.

Vows: I, ________, take you, ________, to be my wife\husband, my partner in life and my one true love. I will cherish our friendship and love you today, tomorrow, and forever. I will trust and honor you. I will laugh with you and cry with you. I will love you faithfully through the best and the worst, Through the difficult and the easy. What may come I will always be there. As I have given you my hand to hold, so I give you my life to keep.

Ring: I give you this ring. Wear it with love and joy. As this ring has no end, neither shall my love for
you. I choose you to be my wife\husband this day and every day.

Candle Ceremony: Now, we're going to engage in a ceremony of spiritual symbolism. Ancient sages tell us that for each of us, there is a candle, a symbol of our own inner light, but that no one can kindle his or her own candle. Each of us needs someone else to kindle it for us. When two people fall in love, they kindle each other's candles, creating great light and joy and glorious expectations. Now, ________ and ________, I'd like you to remember when it was in your relationship that you first realized you were truly in love and wanted to spend the rest of your lives together. And holding that thought…

(Groom________, pick up candle), take this candle, symbol of the inner light in (Bride________), light it by the eternal light, with the dedication to rekindle it again and again, whenever necessary. And (Bride________), (pick up candle), take this candle, symbol of the inner light in (Groom________), light it by the eternal light, with the dedication to rekindle it again and again, whenever necessary. With these candles, we can see how to achieve a beautiful marriage. In your marriage, you will try to bring these lights, the symbols of yourselves, closer and closer to each other, until they become (join the flames) ONE one great torch of light a radiant symbol of love, joy, peace and harmony. (hold flames together) This is the mystery of the union two becoming one. Yet, it is vitally important to remember that there are always really two (divide the flames) in a marriage, each with his or her own desires, yearnings, dreams and wishes. And these must be respected and responded to with great love, with great compassion and with genuine tenderness. We know that it is the prayer of your beloved, as it is the prayer of each of us here, that you will continuously light these candles of love, so that there will always be light and joy, peace and harmony in your hearts and in your home. (put candles back on table)

Pronouncement ________ and ________, now that you have made promises to each other which will be the foundation of the wonderful marriage you are going to build, I (name of pastor________), under the authority of the laws of the state of ________, sanctioned by Divine authority, pronounce you lawfully married, husband and wife in the name of the Father, Son and Holy Spirit.What the two of you, with the help of these, your friends and family who love you, have chosen to put together, let no one "mess with!" Would you care, now, to share with us your first **Married** kiss? Allow me to introduce to you ________ and ________ , now legally married!

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Marriage Service Five

Pastors Reading: "The Art of Marriage"

The little things are the big things. It is never being too old to hold hands. It is remembering to say "I love you" at least once a day. It is never going to sleep angry. It is at no time taking the other for granted; the courtship should not end with the honeymoon, It should continue through all the years. It is having a mutual sense of values and common objectives It is standing together facing the world. It is forming a circle of love that gathers in the whole family. It is doing things for each other, not in the attitude of duty or Sacrifice, but in the spirit of joy. It is speaking words of appreciation and demonstrating Gratitude in thoughtful ways. It is not expecting the husband to wear a halo or The wife to have the wings of an angel. It is no looking for perfection in each other. It is cultivating flexibility, patience, under-standing and A sense of humor It is having the capacity to forgive and forget. It is giving each other an atmosphere in which each can grow. It is finding room for things of the spirit. It is a common search for the good and the beautiful. It is establishing a relationship in which the independence is equal Dependence is mutual and the obligation is reciprocal. It is not only marrying the right partner, It is being the right partner.

Pastor: ________ & ________ , are you ready to take your vows? Man: I, ________, take you, ________, to be my wife, my partner in life and my one true love. I will cherish our friendship and love you today, tomorrow, and forever. I will trust and honor you. I will laugh with you and cry with you. I will love you faithfully through the best and the worst, Through the difficult and the easy. What may come I will always be there. As I have given you my hand to hold, so I give you my life to keep,
So help me God.

Woman: I, ________, take you, ________, to be my husband, my partner in life and my one true love…

Man & Woman: Entreat me not to leave you, or to return from following after you. For where you go, I will go and where you stay, I will stay. Your family & friends will become my family & friends. Where you die, I will die and there I will be buried. May God smile upon us and bless us. May the Lord do with me and more if anything but death parts you from me.

Pastors Blessing of the Rings: The wedding ring is the outward and visible sign of an inward and Spiritual bond which unites two loyal hearts in
endless love. It is a Seal of the vows ________ & ________ have made to one another. Bless O God these rings, that ________ & ________, who give them and who wear them, may ever abide in peace. Living together in Unity, Love and Happiness for
the rest of their lives.

Man: ________, I give you this ring as a symbol of our vows, and with all that I am, and all that I have, I honor you. In the name of the Father and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit, with this ring, I wed thee.

Woman: ________, I give you this ring as a symbol of our vows, and with all that I am, and all that I have, I honor you. In the name of the Father and
of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit, with this ring,
I wed thee.

Pastor Performs Unity Candle Ceremony:
________ & ________, the two lighted candles symbolize your separate lives, your separate families and your separate set of friends. I ask that you each
take one candle and that together you light the cen-ter candle. Lighting the center candle represents that your two lives are now joined to one light, and rep-resents the joining together of your two families and sets of friends to one.

Man & Woman light the candle.

Pastor Makes Declaration of Marriage: In as much as you have each pledged to the other your lifelong Commitment, Love and Devotion, I now pronounce you husband and wife in the name of the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit. Those whom God has joined together let no one put asunder. ________ & ________, you may now seal this bond with a kiss!

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Marriage Service Six

Pastor Steve Means' favorite ceremony

Pastor: Friends and family, we are gathered here in the sight of God, and in the presence of this company, to unite and in holy matrimony. Marriage was ordained by God in the Garden pf Eden and confirmed in Cana of Galilee by the presence of the Lord Himself, and is declared by the Apostle Paul to be honorable among all men. It is therefore, not to be entered into unadvisedly or lightly; but reverently, soberly, and in the fear of God. It is fitting, therefore, that we should begin by seeking God’s blessing for this marriage service.

Let’s pray… Dear Father, we pray that you will bless and as they begin this new journey together. In all the experiences of life, may they always stay close to You and to each other as they share the joys and blessings as well as the trials and heartaches. Help them to honor and keep the promises they make here today, and remind them daily of Your great love for them so they, in turn, may reach out in love to each other. Give them such love and devotion that each may be to the other a strength in need, a comfort in sorrow, a counselor in difficulty, and a companion in joy. In the power of Christ Jesus
we pray, Amen.

The scriptures give us a very clear description of what love is to be; First Corinthians tells us that “Love is patient and kind; love is not jealous or boastful; it is not arrogant or rude. Love does not insist on its own way; it is not irritable or resentful; it does not rejoice at wrong, but rejoices in the right. Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things. Love never fails. So faith, hope, and love abide, these three; but the greatest is love.”

In love, as in life, the little things are the big things. It is never being too old to hold hands. It is remembering to say “I love you” at least once a day. It is never going to sleep angry. It is never taking one another for granted. The courtship should not end with the honeymoon, but should continue throughout the years. It is forming a circle of love that gathers in the whole family. and , in presenting yourselves here today before God and these witnesses to be joined in marriage, you perform an act of faith. This faith will grow, develop and last, but only if you both decide to make it so. No ritual or service can guarantee a lasting and growing love.

If you would have the foundation of your marriage be the devotion you have for one another, not just at this moment, but for all the days to come, then treasure the hopes and dreams that you bring here today. Establish that your love will never be blotted out by the common nor obscured by the ordinary in life. Faults will surface where you now find comfort, and admiration can be shattered by the routine of daily life. But dedication, love and joy will grow when you nourish them together. Stand fast in that hope and confidence, having faith in your shared destiny just as strongly as you have faith in yourselves and in one another today. Only with this spirit can you forge a union that will strengthen and endure all the days of your lives.

And now, if you ________ and ________ , have at present appeared for the purpose of being joined in holy matrimony, will you please signify this intention by joining hands. Groom to repeat after Pastor Steve by phrases: I, ________, with all my heart I take you to be my wife. On this day and for the rest of my life, this is the meaning of my love for you. With the Lord’s help I promise to be patient and kind with you, never jealous, To have a humble heart, to honor and respect you, To place your needs before my own, to be slow to anger, And quick to forgive, to bear all things with you, To believe in you, supporting you in all you do, To hope with you, and to endure with you in faithfulness. I will make you a part of me, and in turn, become a part of you. Until death do us part.

Bride to repeat after pastor Steve by phrases: I, ________, with all my heart I take you to be my husband. On this day and for the rest of my life, this is the meaning of my love for you. With the Lord’s help I promise to be patient and kind with you, never jealous, To have a humble heart, to honor and respect you, To place your needs before my own, to be slow to anger, And quick to forgive, to bear all things with you, To believe in you, supporting you in all you do, To hope with you, and to endure with you in faithfulness. I will make you a part of me, and in turn, become a part of you. Until death do us part.

What tokens do you present as a symbolic confirmation of your promise to each other?
(the rings) Wedding rings serve as a fitting symbol
of the vows you have just spoken. They are the outward and visible sign of an inward and invisible reality—the love that joins your hearts together in God. Let these rings serve not as locks binding you together, but as keys, unlocking the secrets of your hearts for each other to know, and thus bringing you closer together forever.

Pastor gives ring to Groom and Groom presents to Bride saying: ________, with this ring, I pledge my love and commitment. May it ever be a symbol, of
the unbroken bond of our love. Pastor Steve gives
ring to Bride and Bride presents to Groom saying:
_______, with this ring, I pledge my love and commitment. May it ever be a symbol, of the unbroken bond of our love.

Then by the authority vested in me as a representative of the state and a minister of the gospel, and because of the vows made in the presence of these witnesses, it is my joy to pro-nounce you husband and wife. Those whom God
has joined together, let no one put asunder. You
may now kiss your new bride. Friends and family, I present to you…

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Marriage Service Seven

Especially good for couples of diverse religious backgrounds

Opening remarks…

Pastor: “The Art of Marriage” In love and marriage, the little things are the big things. It is never being too old to hold hands. It is remembering to say "I love you" at least once a day It is never going to sleep angry. It is at no time taking the other for granted. It is having a mutual sense of values and common objectives. It is standing together facing the world. It is forming a circle of love that gathers in the entire family. It is doing things for each other, not in the attitude of duty or sacrifice but in the spirit of joy. It is speaking words of appreciation and demonstrating gratitude in thoughtful ways. It is not looking for perfection in each other but cultivating patience, understanding… a sense of humor… and the capacity to forgive and forget. It is providing each other an atmosphere in which each can grow. It is finding room for things of the Spirit. It is establishing a relationship in which the independent is equal, dependence is mutual, and the obligation is reciprocal. It is not only marrying the right partner, it is being the right partner.

Water Ceremony…

Pastor: I now invite the parents of the bride and groom to come forward. In your hands you hold water of the east and water of the west. The two symbolize your own families, your own friends, and your own traditions and faith. As the water pours from separate containers, flows together and becomes one body of water, we witness the joining of the lives of ________ and ________, and of those who are part of their lives now, and those who have helped shape their lives but can now be here in our memories and in spirit. At this moment we remember and honor ________ (list of those dear ones who have passed on to the other side). (ritual pouring of water together) As the water has flowed, let these two become one. We pray this and claim this to the One God who loves us all.

(Option: readings and/or song can go here)

The exchange of vows…

Pastor: ________ and ________ , are you ready to exchange your vows of marriage? Man: I, ________, take you, ________, to be my wife; to honor you, respect you, and care for you - through all that is bitter and all that is sweet. I promise to show you patience, to respect your own mind and thoughts. As we step together into the future I promise to never stop loving and amazing you. As I have given you my hand to hold, I give you my life to keep. Woman: I, ________, take you, ________, to be my husband; to honor you, respect you, and care for you - through all that is bitter and all that is sweet. I promise to show you patience, to respect your own mind and thoughts. As we step together into the future I promise to never stop loving and amazing you. As I have given you my hand to hold, I give you my life to keep.

Pastor: ________ and ________, please join hands. These hands holding yours on your wedding day are the hands of your best friend, young and strong and full of love for you as you promise to love each other today, tomorrow, and forever. These are the hands that will work along side yours, as together you build your future. These are the hands that will passionately love you and cherish you through the years and, with the slightest touch, will comfort you like no others. These are the hands that will hold you when fear or grief fills your mind. These are the hands that will countless times wipe the tears from your eyes - tears of sorrow and tears of joy. These are the hands that will tenderly hold your children. These are the hands that will help you to hold your family as one. These are the hands that will give you strength when you need it. And lastly, these are the hands that, even when wrinkled and aged, will still be reaching for yours, still giving you the same unspoken tenderness with just a touch. The exchange of rings

Pastor: The wedding ring is the outward and visible sigh of an inward and spiritual bond. In these two rings is the symbol of unity in which two lives are not joined as one. May these rings be forever reminders of the unbroken circle of your love and of the promises you have made here today.

(optional: pastor leads prayer to bless rings)

Man: ________, I give you this ring as a symbol of our vows. You are my beloved, you are my friend, and with all that I am, and all that I have, I honor you. In the name of our God. ________, I give you this ring as a symbol of our vows. You are my be-loved, you are my friend, and with all that I am, and all that I have, I honor you. In the name of our God.

(optional: blended family section)

(optional: gifts to parents/grandparents)

Pastor: ________ and ________, now that you have uttered your vows and committed that you will honor your love and build your relationship in marriage, I, ________(pastor’s name), authorized by the state of ________ and sanctioned by Divine Authority, pro-nounce you legally married, husband and wife. What the two of you have chosen to put together with the help of God, let no one interfere with. Now, would you care to share with us your first marriage kiss?

Pastor: Let me introduce to you ________ and ________, now legally married!

Let us go now and celebrate!

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Marriage Service Nine

There is no greater gift than the love that makes two people one. To behold this love blossoming between two hearts is always a joy, and to behold the vows of lovers as they take each to the other, through out all the changes of life, is a glorious moment of the soul. It speaks of the great conviction by which people mutually rely upon and believe in one another. In a world where faith often falls short of our expectation, it is a wonderful tribute to two people to see them joining hands and hearts in perfect faith.

We are gathered to unite this man and this woman in marriage, which is an institution founded in nature, ordained by the state, and made honorable by good men and women in all ages. It is not to be entered into unadvisedly or lightly, but discreetly, advisedly, and with due reverence. This celebration is the outward token of a sacred and inward union of hearts by which neither state nor church can create or annul, as this union is created by loving purpose and kept by abiding will. Into this legacy, ________ and ________ come to be united.

Who is it that brings this woman to this man? (Her mother and I) ________ and ________, you are now taking into your care and keeping the happiness of one person in all the world whom you love best. You are adding to your life not only the affection of each other, but also the companionship and blessing of a deep trust as well. You are agreeing to share strength, responsibilities and most of all to share love. We cannot join ourselves to one another without giving our word. And this must be an unconditional giving, for in joining one another we join ourselves to the unknown. ________, will you take ________ as your wedded wife? Will you love her, comfort her, honor and keep her in sickness and in health, forsaking all others, keep you only to her, so long as you both shall live!

________, will you take ________ as your wedded husband? Will you love him, comfort him, honor
and keep him in sickness and in health, forsaking
all others, keep you only to him, so long as you
both shall live?

What greater thing is there for two human souls than to feel that they are joined for life – to strengthen each other in all labor, to rest on each other in all sorrow, to minister to each other in silent unspeak-able memories at the moment of the last parting (George Elliot).

We seek the comfort of another. Someone to share and share the life we choose. Someone to help us through the never ending attempt to understand ourselves. An in the end, someone to comfort us along the way (Marcus Finch Lupus).

Married love is love woven into a pattern of living.
It has in it the elements of understanding and of the passionate kindness of husband and wife toward each other. It is rich in the many-sided joys of life because each is more concerned with giving joy than with grasping it for himself. And joys are most truly experienced when they are most fully shared (Leland Foster Wood).

Please repeat after me. I ________, take you ________ for my wife from this day forward, to
have and to hold as equal partner in life, to whom I give my deepest love and respect for as long as we both shall live. I promise to love, honor and respect you from this moment on. I ________, take you ________ for my husband from this day forward, to have and to hold, as equal partner in life, to whom I give my deepest love and respect for as long as we both shall live. I promise to love, honor and respect you from this moment on.

The vows which have been exchanged by ________ and ________ have been offered in our hearing.
But, words are fleeting, and the sound of them is soon gone. The wedding ring becomes an enduring symbol of the promises which have been made. May
I have the rings please. (Groom)________, Will you take this ring and place it upon the 3rd finger of ________'s left hand, and holding her hand in
yours please repeat after me.

________, with free and unconstrained soul,
I give you all that I am and all that I am to become. Take this ring, and with it my promise of faith, patience, and love fair the rest of my life.

(Bride)________: I accept this ring with devotion
and love with all my heart.

(Bride)________, Will you take this ring and place it upon the 3rd finger of ________'s left hand, and holding his hand in yours please repeat after me, with free and unconstrained soul, I give you that all I am and all that I am to become. Take this ring, and with it my promise of faith, patience, and love for the rest of my life.

(Groom)________: I accept this ring with devotion and love with all my heart.

May this couple, just rnarried, draw strength from their agreement. Understanding, even in moments of despair the virtues found in each other. Solace under fire, encouragement when life becomes a trial, sharing one another's joy and pain. Welcoming life's myst-eries through the optimism found in their love. Grow-ing wise instead of old. Sharing today's inspiration, beyond the present, may this union only add to the goodness and joy of life.

________ and ________, Go into the world and fulfill your lives. Hold fast your ideas. Give to one another new experiences of joy. Challenge one another so that you may grow. May the love you hold for each other..now sealed in marriage, continue to mature, that your life together may he a source of strength and inspiration to the community of your family and the wider circle of the world. I now pronounce you husband and wife. You may kiss the bride.

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Marriage Service Eleven

Processional

Opening Remarks:
All around the world, marriage is a sign of our Creator’s intention for wholeness in all creation.
The joining together of two persons into one unique, intimate and creative unity in marriage is therefore not only a symbol but also a demonstration of the well being and God’s good work in the creation. This day has been designed to reflect the traditions of
two cultures and religions. (Bride) and (Groom) see Hinduism and Christianity as two parts of the same circle, with God at the center. They wish to honor these cultures and religions today. They are mutually devoted to each of their families – and could not be doing this without their strength and support. You are all integral to this ceremony, and to the lives (Bride) and (Groom) are uniting here today. In their love together (Bride) and (Groom) demonstrate not only their joy in the present; but their commitment to share their future together.

Presentation of (Bride): When a father presents his daughter in marriage, he is honoring the covenant into which she is entering and gives his and her mother’s promise of loving support. With that understanding, I ask, "Who presents this woman
to be married to this man"? “We do”

Commemoration of Those Departed:
Lighting of the commemorative candle It is at this time we would remember those who have passed to spirit as well as those who could not travel to be with us today. Although they have been separated from us physically… faith and love will always bind them
to family and friends, and continue through the rich legacy that (Groom) and (Bride) begin today. (Pastor to light as he speaks) With these thoughts, I say these words for the Bride and Groom: May the
lighting of this candle be a reminder of the memories
we have shared, a representation of the everlasting impact you have made upon the lives of those who remember and love you. Today we pause to reflect upon those who have shaped our character, molded our spirits and touched our hearts.

(Momentary Pause)

Greeting: We are gathered here in the presence of God and of this company to join in holy matrimony (Bride) and (Groom) and to bear witness to the transforming power of love. Love is a quality of spirit and an attitude of the emotions, but a marriage is a life’s work, a spiritual art form. Therefore, this is an occasion of both profound joy and great responsi-bility, and we who partake in it bind ourselves as witnesses to the labor of love that (Bride) and (Groom) are undertaking here.

The uniting in marriage of two individuals from two separate families and backgrounds to establish a new family is an important and memorable event. For as attached as we are to (Bride) and (Groom) by special bonds of love and affection, the uniting of these two people in heart and body and mind is an occasion
of great significance that we can all celebrate. In acknowledgment of this holy purpose and of
the power of this occasion, let us pray…

The Invocation:
Dear Father, we pray that you will bless (Bride) and (Groom) as they begin this new journey together. In all the experiences of life, may they always stay close to You and to each other as they share the joys and blessings as well as the trials and heartaches. Help them to honor and keep the promises they make here today, and remind them daily of Your great love for them so they, in turn, may reach out in love to each other. Be with them on this joyous occasion of showing their love and making their vows; and be with us, their witnesses, that we may all be changed by what is said and witnessed here today. Amen.

Apache Wedding Prayer:
Read by ________) Now you will feel no rain, For each of you will be shelter to the other. Now you will feel no cold, For each of you will be warmth to the other. Now there is no more loneliness, For each of you will be companion to the other. Now you are two bodies, But there is only one life before you. And may your days be good and long upon the earth.

Expression of Intent: (Man), Do you choose (Woman) as your wedded wife, to live together in sacred marriage. Will you be honest with her always? Will you stand by her through whatever may come? Do you agree to make whatever adjustments are necessary so that you can genuinely share your life with her? Do you promise to faithfully cherish and honor her, encourage, comfort and support her, to attend her in sickness and in health, forswearing all others, remaining completely loyal to her, as long as you both shall live? (Man): I do (Woman), Do you choose (Man) as your wedded husband, to live together in sacred marriage? Will you be honest with him always? Will you stand by him through whatever may come Do you agree to make whatever adjust-ments are necessary so that you can genuinely
share your life with him? Do you promise to faithfully cherish and honor him, encourage, comfort and support him, attend him in sickness and in health, forswearing all others, remaining completely loyal to him, as long as you both shall live?
(Woman): I do

Vows: We invite each of you as family and friends to share this happy occasion, to bless (Woman) and (Man), to add your joy to theirs as they exchange their vows: (Insert Man's Vows Here)
(Insert Woman's Vows Here)

Exchange of Rings:
What tokens do you present as a symbolic confirmation of your promise to each other? (the rings) Wedding rings serve as a fitting symbol of the vows you have just spoken. They are the outward and visible sign of an inward and invisible reality—the love that joins your hearts together in God. Let these rings serve not as locks binding you together, but as keys, unlocking the secrets of your hearts for each other to know, and thus bringing you closer together forever. Taken from a Hindu wedding: A circle is the symbol of the sun and the earth and the universe. It is a symbol of holiness and of perfection and of peace. In these rings it is the symbol of unity, in which your lives are now joined in one unbroken circle, in which, wherever you go, you will always return to one another and to your togetherness.
The rings you give and receive this day are the symbols of the endless love into which you enter
as husband and wife. (Man) puts rings on (Woman)’s hand: With this ring, I thee wed. I love you for who you are, and I commit myself in trust to you and to our relationship. As I give you this ring, I join my life with yours. (Woman) puts ring on (Man)’s hand With this ring, I thee wed. I love you for who you are, and I commit myself in trust to you and to our relation-ship. As I give you this ring, I join my life with yours.

Sand Ceremony: (Woman) and (Man), you have just sealed your relationship by the giving and receiving
of rings and this covenant is a relationship pledge between two people who agree that they will commit themselves to one another throughout their lives. You are committing here today to share the rest of your lives with one another. Today, this relationship
is symbolized through the pouring of these three individual containers of sand into a fourth one. One, representing you, (Woman), and all that you were,
all that you are, and all that you will ever be. The Second representing you, (Man), and all that you were, all that you are, and all that you will ever be. And The Third one represents The Spirit or The Soul—the part of ourselves that guides our very existence, and that which will now guide your relationship together as well—call on it consistently and often. As these three containers of sand are poured into the fourth container, the individual containers of sand continue to exist, but a fourth entity is also created; one which did not exist
before but one which will forever more continue
to be. (Pastor pours the Spiritual layer) This layer represents Your Souls, who are and always will be
the foundation of you both as individuals. (Woman), please pour some of your sand which will represent you as an individual. (Man), please pour some of
your sand which will represent you as an individual. (Pastor pours more of the Spiritual layer) This layer represents the Spiritual aspects of who are as a couple, being guided by your Soul purpose together as a team, out picturing your spiritual purpose in your lives together, and in the lives of any children that might one day gather onto you. (Woman) and (Man), now pour your remaining sand into the con-tainer together to represent the joining of your two individual lives into this union of marriage. Just as these grains of sand can never be separated and poured again into the individual containers, so may your marriage be. (Woman) and (Man), it is time to acknowledge the importance of the events of daily life you will encounter in your new life. Ponder now your new state of life, that you may live it well. May every word you speak and every breath you take in each other’s presence, be twice blessed, in truth and joy, and may you walk together in strength each holy day of your lives, recognizing that what you undertake together will bring you continuous joy. Know that
the love you share can truly help to change the world. Your souls are united from this moment forward.
May you grow through the experience of oneness. May your home be a haven of serenity to all. May your life together be a tribute to the beauty of creation. Go now, knowing that God is blessing
you on your way.

Let us Pray: Heavenly Father, we ask Thy blessings upon (Woman) and (Man) as they blend together
in their marital union. Give them beauty, closeness, and the tender passion of deep friendship as they embrace the future. Bless them deeply and give them growth and joy as they walk this life together. Amen

Pronouncement of Marriage:
Forasmuch as (Woman) and (Man) have agreed
to progress together in sacred marriage, and have expressed their intentions before God and this assembly by their solemn vows each to the other and by the exchange of rings, I now pronounce that they are husband and wife through the power of The One Eternal God May those whom God has joined together be generously blessed forever!

The Kiss: (Man), You may now kiss your Bride!

Presentation: Ladies and Gentlemen, May I present: (Man) and (Woman), now legally married!

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Marriage Service Twelve

The Anglican Marriage Service
(Click for More Royal Wedding Vows)

From The Book Of Common Prayer 1662 edition
Provided by Rev. T Michael Hornecker

DEARLY beloved, we are gathered together here in the sight of God, and in the face of this company, to join together this Man and this Woman in holy Matrimony; which is an honourable estate, instituted of God himself, signifying unto us the mystical union that is betwixt Christ and his Church: which holy estate Christ adorned and beautified with his pre-sence and first miracle that he wrought in Cana of Galilee, and is commended in Holy Writ to be honour-able among all men: and therefore is not by any to be enterprised nor taken in hand unadvisedly, lightly, or wantonly; but reverently, discreetly, advisedly, sob-erly, and in the fear of God, duly considering the causes for which Matrimony was ordained.

First, it was ordained for the increase of mankind according to the will of God; and that children might be brought up in the fear and nurture of the Lord and to the praise of His Holy name.

Secondly, it was ordained in order that the natural instincts andaffections, implanted by God, should be hallowed and directed aright;that those who are called of God to this holy estate, should continue therein in pureness of living.

Thirdly, it was ordained for the mutual society, help, and comfort, that the one ought to have of the other, both in prosperity and adversity.

Into which holy estate these two persons present come now to be joined.

Therefore, if any man can shew just cause, why they may not lawfully be joined together, let him now speak, or else hereafter, forever hold his peace.

I REQUIRE and charge you both, as ye will answer at the dreadful day of judgment when the secrets of all hearts shall be disclosed, that if either of you know any impediment, why ye may not be lawfully joined
together in Matrimony, ye do now confess it. For be ye well assured, that so many as be coupled together otherwise than God's Word doth allow are not joined together by God; neither is their Matrimony lawful.

GROOM, Wilt thou have this Woman to thy wedded wife, to live together after God's ordinance in the holy estate of Matrimony? Wilt thou love her, comfort
her, honour, and keep her in sickness and in health; and, forsaking all others, keep thee only unto her, so long as ye both shall live?

The Man shall answer, I will.

BRIDE, Wilt thou have this Man to thy wedded husband, to live together after God's law in the holy estate of Matrimony? Wilt thou love him, comfort him, honour, and keep him (alternate ancient ceremony:
obey him and serve him, love, honor and keep him) in sickness and in health; and, forsaking all others, keep thee only unto him, so long as ye both shall live?

The Woman shall answer, I will.

Who giveth this Woman to be married to this Man?

I, GROOM take thee BRIDE to my wedded Wife, to have and to hold from this day forward, for better for worse, for richer for poorer, in sickness and in health, to love and to cherish, till death us do part, according to God's holy law; and thereto I give thee my troth (alternate ancient ceremony: plight thee my troth).

I, BRIDE take thee GROOM to my wedded Husband, to have and to hold from this day forward, for better for worse, for richer for poorer, in sickness and in health, to love and to cherish (alternate ancient
ceremony: to love, cherish and to obey), till death us do part, according to God's holy law; and thereto I give thee my troth.

BLESS, O Lord, this Ring, that he who gives it and she who shall wear it may remain faithful to each other, and abide peace, and favour, and live together in love until their lives end. Through Jesus Christ our
Lord. Amen.

WITH this Ring I thee wed, with my body I thee honor, and all my worldly goods with thee I share; (alternate ancient ceremony: with my body I thee worship and with all my worldly goods I thee endow);

In the Name of the Father and of the Son, and of the
Holy Ghost. Amen.

(They shall both kneel down: the congregation shall remain standing and the Minister shall say,)

Let us pray. O ETERNAL God, Creator and Preserver of all mankind, Giver of all spiritual grace, the Author of everlasting life; Send thy blessing upon these thy servants, this Man and this Woman, whom we bless
in thy Name; that living faithfully together, may surely perform and keep the vow and covenant betwixt them made, whereof this Ring given and received is a token and pledge, and may ever remain in perfect love and peace together, and live according to thy laws; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

Those whom God hath joined together let no man put asunder.

FORASMUCH as GROOM and BRIDE have consented together in holy wedlock, and have witnessed the same before God and this company, and thereto
have given and pledged their troth, either to other, and have declared the same by giving and receiving a Ring, and by joining hands; I pronounce that they are Man and Wife, In the Name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost. Amen

(The Minister shall add this Blessing.)

GOD the Father, God the Son, God the Holy Ghost, bless, preserve, and keep you; the Lord mercifully with his favour look upon you, and so fill you with all spiritual benediction and grace; that ye may so live
together in this life, that in the world to come ye may have life everlasting. Amen.

[An important point to be made is that
the English Catholic version recited by many brides before 1549 and all of Henry VIII's brides, the bride was required to vow to be "bonny and buxom in bed and at board"]

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Marriage Service Fourteen

Now, if you ______ and you ______ are ready to enter into the greatest super union of all time, bigger than Dr. Doom and the tick, more powerful than the Hulk and Wonder Woman, please unite your right hands as a show of might and stability and brace yourself for the ceremondy of wedlock.

The minister shall say to the man:
Do you take __________ to be your lawful wedded wife? Answer, I do; or assent.

Do you promis to love and cherish her, in sickness and in health, for richer or for poorer, for better or for worse, even when she yells at the wiener dog, forsaking all others, so long as you both shall live? Answer I do; or assent.

Then to the woman:
Do you take _______ to be your lawful wedded husband? Answer, I do; or assent.

Do you promist to love and cherish him, in sickness and in health, for richer or for poorer, for better or for worse, even through the shrugs and probablys, forsaking all others so long as you both shall live? Answer I do.

You promise in the presence of these innocent bystanders, that you will at all times and in all circumstances, conduct yourselves toward one another as Super Husband and Wonderful Wife? Both answer I do.

That you will love and laugh and cherish one another until the Great Adventure ends? Both answer I do.

If rings are used, the minister will say to the bridge and groom: Please place the rings on the hands of your chosen one and reunite your hands.

Then by the authority vested in me as a respresentative of the state ___ and a misiter of the gospel, and because of the vows made in the presence of these innocent bystanders,

it is my joy to pronounce you super husbankd and wonderful wife. What God has joined together, let no super villain put asunder. You may now kiss your new bride.

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Marriage Service Fifteen

Pastor: Who gives _______ to be married to _______? Father: Her family does

Opening Prayer
Pastor: Father, hear our prayers for _____ and ______, who today are united in marriage before your altar. Give them your blessing, and strengthen their love for each other. We ask this through our Lord Jesus Christ.

Opening Remarks
Pastor: Friends, we have been invited here today to share with _____ and _____ a most important moment in their lives. In the time they have been together, their love and understanding of each other has grown and matured. Now they have decided to live their lives as husband and wife.

______ and ______, nothing is easier than saying words and nothing is harder than living them day after day. What you promise today must be renewed and redecided tomorrow. At the end of this ceremony legally you be man and wife, but you still must decide each day that stretches out before you, that you want to be married.

Real love is something beyond the warmth and glow, the excitement and romance of being deeply in love, It is caring as much about the welfare and happiness of your marriage partner as about your own. But real love is not total absorption in each other; it is looking outward in the same direction – together. Love makes burdens lighter, because you divide them. It makes joys more intense because you share them. It makes you stronger so you can reach out and become involved with life in ways you dared not risk alone.

Intentions and Vows
Pastor: _____ and ____, have you come here freely and without reservation to give yourselves to each other in marriage?

Pastor: Since it is your intention to enter into marriage, join your right hands and declare your consent before God.

Pastor (groom repeats): I, _______ take you, _______, to be my wife. I promise to be true to you in good times and in bad, in sickness and in health. I will love you and honor you all the days of my life.

Pastor (bride repeats): I, _____ take you, ________, to be my husband. I promise to be true to you in good times and in bad, in sickness and in health. I will love you and honor you all the days of my life

Blessings and exchange of rings
Pastor: Lord, bless and consecrate ______ and ______ in their love for each other. May these rings be a symbol of true faith in each other, and always remind them of their love. We ask this through Christ our Lord.

Pastor (Groom Repeats): Take this ring as a sign of my love and fidelity. In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.

Pastor (Bride Repeats): Take this ring as a sign of my love and fidelity. In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.

Reading - “Blessing for a Marriage”
May your marriage bring you all the exquisite excitements a marriage should bring, and may life grant you also patience, tolerance, and understanding.

May you always need one another – not so much to fill your emptiness as to help you to know your fullness. A mountain needs a valley to be complete; the valley does not make the mountain less, but more; and the valley is more a valley because it has a mountain towering over it. So let it be with you and you.

May you need one another, but not out of weakness.
May you want one another, but not out of lack.
May you entice one another, but not compel one another.

May you embrace one another, but not out encircle one another.

May you succeed in all important ways with one another, and not fail in the little graces.

May you look for things to praise, often say, “I love you!” and take no notice of small faults.

If you have quarrels that push you apart, may both of you hope to have good sense enough to take the first step back.

May you enter into the mystery which is the awareness of one another's presence – no more physical than spiritual, warm and near when you are side by side, and warm and near when you are in separate rooms or even distant cities.

May you have happiness, and may you find it making one another happy.

May you have love, and may you find it loving one another.

Unity Candle Ceremony
Pastor: ______ and ______, the two lighted candles symbolize your separate lives, your separate families and your separate sets of friends. I ask that you each take one candle and that together you light the center candle. The individual candles represent your individual lives before today. Lighting the center candle represents that your two lives are now joined to one light, and represents the joining together of your two families and sets of friends to one.

*****light candles and give roses...quartet plays*****

Blessing
Pastor: may God, the almighty Father, give you his joy and bless you in your children.
Response:          Amen
Pastor: may the only Son of God have mercy onyou and help you in good times and in bad.
Response:          Amen
Pastor: May the Holy Spirit of God always fill your hearts with his love.
Response:          Amen
Pastor: And may almighty God Bless you all, the Father, and the Son, and the Holy Spirit.
Response: Amen

Pronouncement
Pastor:  Forasmuch as _____ and ______ have consented together in hold wedlock, and have witnessed the same before God and this company, I declare that _______ and _______ are now husband and wife, in the name of the Father,  and the Son and of the Holy Spirit. Amen. Whom therefore God hath joined together, let no man put assunder.

Pastor: ______, you may now kiss your bride …

Introduction
Pastor: I am now honored to present to you _____________________.

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Marriage Service Nineteen

Processional, couple stands before minister — Pastor's greeting to guests - setting tone

(option) Honor/Memorialize the departed
Pastor talks of those not present, but who shaped the lives of <bride> & <groom> and thus live on in their hearts. sub-option: light candle to represent their spirits present here.

(optional) Prayer for Protection
(guests can read it aloud from program, led by pastor – or - pastor can lead in call-and-response fashion.)

The Light of God surrounds us,
The Love of God enfolds us,
The Power of God protects us,
The Presence of God watches over us.
Wherever we are, God is, and all is well
And we are Grateful.
Amen

Pastor's homily
Readings
Marriage:
by Leland Foster from How Love Grows in Marriage

Married love is love woven into a pattern of living. It has in it the elements of understanding and of the passionate kindness of husband and wife toward each other. It is rich in the many-sided joys of life because each is more concerned with giving joy than with grasping it for himself. And joys are most truly experienced when they are most fully shared.

The Expression of Intent
<bride> & <groom> now that you have heard about the magic and mysteries of marriage, the way it will continually surprise you, the strength and wisdom it will everlastingly ask of you, do you choose still and happily and in our midst to make the promises of marriage?
"We do"

Vows
note: the groom and bride need not speak identical vows
<groom>
Thank you for taking the time to get to know me. I promise to love you as my wife,
to share our lives and our dreams,
to keep my heart open to you as much as I can, to always let yet know that I love you,
and to always kiss you goodnight. I love you Denise.
It is a great honor to be marrying you today. You have brought fun and laughter, Warmth and serenity into my life.
I love that you are always honest, kind, and patient. I promise to be thankful every day
For the wonderful person that you are.
I promise to be the best person that I can be.
I promise to be your best friend and companion In all that life brings to us.
I will love you always.

<bride>
<groom>, thank you for taking the time to get to know me. I promise to love you as my wife,
to share our lives and our dreams,
to keep my heart open to you as much as I can, to always let yet know that I love you,
and to always kiss you goodnight. I love you Denise.
It is a great honor to be marrying you today. You have brought fun and laughter, Warmth and serenity into my life.
I love that you are always honest, kind, and patient. I promise to be thankful every day
For the wonderful person that you are.
I promise to be the best person that I can be.
I promise to be your best friend and companion In all that life brings to us.
I will love you always.

Blessing of the Rings
<bride> & <groom>, rings are made precious by our wearing them. They carry our meaning; they say who we are, where we have been, and where we are going. They become us; they reflect us; they are a symbol of our truest essence.
Your wedding rings are most special because they say that,even in your uniqueness, you have chosen to be bonded, to allow the presence of another human being to enhance who you are. Your rings carry the potent double message: "We are individuals and yet we belong; we are not alone."
As you wear them through time, they will reflect not only who you are but also the union you are making, the fact that through the rest of your lives each of you will be imprinted by the other, yet as yourself remain. (optional) Blessing prayer with guests, over rings and couple. Another option: guests say "Our Father" together.

Exchanging of the Rings

<groom>
I love you <bride>. Wear this ring as a reminder that I will love you every single day of our lives.

<bride>
I love you <groom>. Wear this ring as a reminder that I will love you every single day of our lives.

Benediction

Treat yourselves and each other with respect, and remind yourselves often of what brought you together. Give the highest priority to the tenderness, gentleness, and kindness that your connection deserves. When frustration, difficulties and fear assail your relationship, as they threaten all relationships at one time or another, remember to focus on what is right between you, not only the part which seems wrong. In this way, you can ride out the storms when clouds hide the face of- the sun in your lives—remembering that even if' you lose sight of- it for a moment, the sun is still there. And if each of you takes responsibility for the quality Of' your life together, it will be marked by abundance. and delight.

The Apache Prayer feels appropriate at this moment:

Now you will feel no rain, for each of you will be shelter for the other. Now you will feel no cold, for each of you will be warmth to the other. Now there will be no loneliness, for
each of you will be companion to the other. Now you are two persons, but there is only one life before you. May beauty surround you both in the journey ahead and through all the years. May happiness be your companion and your days together he good and long upon the earth.

Pronouncement of Marriage
Having taken these pledges of affection and vows of fidelity, I do
therefore, by the authority of the laws of this State, sanctioned by
divine authority, pronounce you lawfully married, husband and wife.

What you have chosen to create together with the help of these who care about you, let no one mess with!

Minister then invites the first marriage kiss.

Introduction
Let me introduce to you for the first time: <bride> & <groom> (optional- . . . <lastname> >

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Marriage Service Twenty

The Welcome: Welcome family and friends. We are gathered together to witness the marriage of (Bride) and (Groom). The uniting of two individuals from two separate families and backgrounds is an important and memorable event. We celebrate with them the love they have discovered in each other and we sup-port their decision to commit themselves to each other for the rest of their lives. Marriage is a commit-ment to take another person as a Friend, Companion, and Lover. Marriage is an honorable estate not to be entered into lightly but thoughtfully and reverently.
I invite you to join me in prayer.

The Prayer: Heavenly Father, we ask your blessing upon (Bride) and (Groom) as they come to pledge their hearts and lives to one another. Strengthen them so that they may forever be true and loving to each other. Temper their hearts with understanding and forgiveness. May their home be a place of love and kindness, where no one is a stranger. Protect them and keep them always in your care. Amen.

Presentation of the Bride:

Minister: Who comes today to give this woman to be married to this man? Son: My sister and I do.

Reading: In a letter to the people of Corinth, Saint Paul describes how we should love one another. If I speak in the tongues of men and angels but have not love, I am only a resounding gong or clanging cymbal. If I have the gift of prophecy and can fathom the mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have a faith that can move mountains, but have not love, I am nothing. If I give all my possessions to the poor and surrender by body to the flames, but have not love, I am nothing. Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, It does not boast, It is not proud. It is not rude, It is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered. It keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil, but rejoices with the truth.It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, and always perseveres. Love never fails. There will always be faith, hope, and love; But the greatest of these is love.

The Declaration of Consent:
Minister: (Groom) and (Bride), the union of husband and wife is intended for your mutual joy, for the help and comfort given one another in prosperity and adversity. These are solemn vows and I charge you both, as you stand before your family and friends, that having duly considered the covenant you are about to make, you do now declare your pledge of faith to each other. (Groom), do you come here today in the presence of these witnesses to declare your love for (Bride) and choose her as the one with whom you wish to spend your life? Do you give yourself to her and accept the gift of self which she gives to you? Do you pledge to love her, comfort her, honor and keep her, come what may; and, forsaking all others, be faithful to her so long as you both shall live?

Groom: I do.

(Bride), do you come here today in the presence of these witnesses to declare your love for (Groom) and choose him as the one with whom you wish to spend your life? Do you give yourself to him and accept the gift of self which he gives to you? Do you pledge to love him, comfort him, honor and keep him, come what may; and, forsaking all others, be faithful to him so long as you both shall live?

Bride: I do.

The Vows: (Groom), look into (Bride's) eyes and repeat this vow after me: I, (Groom), take you, (Bride),To be my wedded wife; To love and cherish, From this day forward; In times of joy and of sorrow; In times of plenty or of want; In sickness and in health; As long as we both shall live.

(Bride), look into (Groom's) eyes and repeat this vow after me: I, (Bride), take you, (Groom), to be my wedded husband; To love and cherish, from this day forward; In times of joy and of sorrow; In times of plenty or of want; In sickness and in health; As long as we both shall live.

The Exchange of Rings: Wedding rings are the traditional symbols of vows taken in marriage – a circle – without beginning or ending, and with no point of weakness. They are the outward sign of the bond that unites two hearts. The wedding ring is placed on the fourth finger of the left-hand because it was believed that this finger was a direct connection to the heart – the perfect place for a symbol representing eternal love and commitment.

(Groom), take this ring and as you place it on (Bride's) hand, repeat after me: In token and pledge of our love; With this ring, I thee wed.

(Bride), take this ring and as you place it on (Groom's) hand, repeat after me: In token and pledge of our love; With this ring I thee wed.

A Prayer and Blessing: Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed by Thy Name. We thank you today for (Bride) and (Groom), for the love that they share and for the commitment that they have made before you and before us to one another. I pray your blessing upon this marriage. May (Bride) and (Groom's) love for one another continue to deepen and grow day by day throughout the years ahead and may they always find in one another all the love, all the comfort, all the joy, all of the many good and wondrous things which you had in mind when you said in your word that it is not good for man to live alone, but that he should cleave to his wife and the two should become one flesh. May they truly be one, not only according to the laws of the state of ______, but also to the law of Heaven. We pray these things. Amen.

The Pronouncement:
(Groom) and (Bride), you came here today of your free will and in our presence, have declared your love and commitment to each other. You have given and received a ring as a symbol of your promises.

Therefore, by the power vested in me by the laws of the state of ______, I take great pride and pleasure in pronouncing you husband and wife.

The Kiss: (Groom), you may kiss your bride.

The Introduction: Ladies and gentlemen, I now present to you Mr. and Mrs. ______________.

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Marriage Service Twenty-One

This is Rev. Frieda Hughes' favorite ceremony.

Processional 

Presentation

Who offers their blessing for the union of ___<bride>______ and _____<groom>_____? [pause] Thank You. 

Pastor's Homily 

Opening Prayer

      Loving God, We come today to witness the union of this beloved couple, ______<bride>________ & ________<groom>________, in Holy Matrimony. We know that their love for each other has already been divinely blessed. We joyfully come to add our personal blessings and support, knowing that the love they share will grow and mature with each day of their lives together. And for this and for all blessings we are truly grateful. Amen. (Rev. Frieda) 

      Today __<bride>_____ and ___<groom>_____ welcome you, the families and friends who share this day with them.  

And we acknowledge the cherished memories of those family members who are with us in spirit for this joyous occasion. [If couple wishes, names can be mentioned here.] 

      The ideals, the understanding, and the mutual respect which __<bride>________ and ___<groom>_____ bring to their marriage have its roots in the love, friendship and guidance they have received from each of you here.

      So this is much more than a social or a civil occasion – it is a spiritual ceremony in the deepest sense – it is a pledging and a celebration of the world of oneness that has grown up between these two beloved people.

      It is a sacred and a personal union which churches may solemnize or states may make legal, but which only their shared love can create, and their mutual loyalty sustain.

      Our presence here is a statement of our commitment, encouragement and support of the marriage they seek to create.  

       ____<bride>_______ and __<groom>_______ , having chosen the way of inter-dependence, you now move on to deepen your commitment to each other. And all of our love and good wishes are with you in the fullness of this moment.   

[reading(s)] 

Let us listen now to these familiar words from 1st Corinthians 13: [New Revised Standard Version] 

      “If I speak in the tongues of mortals and of angels, but do not have love, I am a noisy gong or a clanging cymbal. And if I have prophetic powers, and understand all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have all faith, so as to remove mountains, but do not have love, I am nothing. If I give away all my possessions, and if I hand over my body so that I may boast, but do not have love, I gain nothing. 

      Love is patient; love is kind; love is not envious or boastful or arrogant or rude. It does not insist on its own way; it is not irritable or resentful; it does not rejoice in wrongdoing, but rejoices in the truth. It bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things. 

      Love never ends. But as for prophecies, they will come to an end; as for tongues, they will cease; as for knowledge, it will come to an end. For we know only in part, and we prophesy only in part; but when the complete comes, the partial will come to an end. When I was a child, I spoke like a child, I thought like a child, I reasoned like a child; when I became an adult, I put an end to childish ways.  

      For now we see in a mirror, dimly, but then we will see face to face. Now I know only in part; then I will know fully, even as I have been fully known. And now faith, hope, and love abide, these three; and the greatest of these is love.”

Intro to Statement of intent

      It is indeed wonderful that two best friends have come together before their families and friends to declare their love and friendship and to sanctify it with marriage.

      Marriage is the union of two divinities. It is the union of two souls in a strong love for the abolishment of separateness. It is the higher unity which fuses the separate unities within the two spirits. It is the golden ring in a chain whose beginning is a glance, and whose ending is eternity.

[SPOKEN TO GROOM, BY BRIDE]

“I, ___<bride>_______, take you, ___<groom>________,

to be my husband.

I promise to be true to you

in good times and in bad,

in sickness and in health.

I will love and honor you

all the days of my life.”

“I, __<groom>________, take you, ___<bride>________,

to be my wife.

I promise to be true to you

in good times and in bad,

in sickness and in health.

I will love and honor you

all the days of my life.”

[MINISTER ASKS THE COUPLE:]

“ ____<bride>______ and ____<groom>____ , Are you ready to confirm your love in the responsibility of marriage?”

[BRIDE AND GROOM TOGETHER:]

Yes

[MINISTER TO GROOM:]

Do you, ____<groom>______________, take __________<bride>_____________ to be your beloved wife, to love, to honor, to cherish, to respect and comfort, in sorrow or joy, in hardship or in ease, to have and to hold from this day forth?

GROOM: I do.

[MINISTER TO BRIDE:]

Do you, ________<bride>_____________, take _____<groom>__________________ to be your beloved husband, to love, to honor, to cherish, to respect and comfort, in sorrow or joy, in hardship or in ease, to have and to hold from this day forth?

BRIDE: I do.

Reading

on Marriage, from The Prophet by Kahlil Gibran:

You shall be together when the white wings of death scatter your days.

Ay, you shall be together even in the silent memory of God.

But let there be spaces in your togetherness,

And let the winds of the heavens dance between you.

Love one another, but make not a bond of love:

Let it rather be a moving sea between the shores of your souls.

Fill each other’s cup but drink not from one cup.

Give one another of your bread but eat not from the same loaf.

Sing and dance together and be joyous, but let each one of you be alone,

Even as the strings of a lute are alone though they quiver with the same music.

For only the hand of Life can contain your hearts.

And stand together yet not too near together:

For the pillars of the temple stand apart,

And the oak tree and the cypress

grow not in each other’s shadow.”

[RING CEREMONY]

MINISTER: The ring is a circle and is the symbol of the Universe ― the all ― infinity. It is also the symbol of completeness, peace, unbroken harmony and endless friendship. These two rings are the symbol of the unity in which your two lives have been joined in one unbroken circle.

Groom:

“_______<bride>_____, I give you this ring as a symbol of my vow, and with all that I am, and all that I have, I honor you.” 

Bride:

*_____<groom> _______, I give you this ring as a symbol of my vow, and with all that I am, and all that I have, I honor you.”

MINISTER: Your rings always represent the unbroken circle of Love given and received in freedom. Let each person assembled here offer in his or her own way a silent prayer that the spirit of this gathering engulf and bless the union of  _______<bride>______ and __<groom> ___________ .

Unity Sand/Blended Sand ceremony

This relationship is symbolized through the pouring of these three individual containers of sand into a fourth one. One, representing you, Bride, and all that you were, all that you are, and all that you will ever be. One representing you, Groom, and all that you were and all that you are, and all that you will ever be.

The third one represents the Christ, all that He is and will forever be. As these three containers of sand are poured into the fourth container, the individual containers of sand continue to exist, but a fourth entity is also created; one which did not exist before but one which will forevermore continue to be.

Just as the individual grains of sand can never again be separated and poured again into the individual containers, so your marriage will be.

[Minister pours the Christ layer.]

This layer represents the Christ who is and always will be the foundation of you both as individuals.

Minister: Bride, would you pour some of your sand, representing you as an individual.

Groom, would you pour some of your sand, representing you as an individual.

[Minister pours more of Christ layer.] This layer represents the Christ as the foundation of your marriage.

Bride and Groom, please pour your remaining sand into the container together to represent the joining of your two individual lives into this one union of marriage.

Declaration

In as much as ______<bride>_______ and _____<groom> ________  have grown in knowledge, respect, and love of one another; because they have agreed in their desire to travel forward in life together seeking an ever richer, deepening relationship and because they pledged themselves to meet all of life’s experiences together, we their families and friends, rejoice!

May all that is noble, true, enriching, creative and beautiful be with you both, always.

IN THE PRESENCE of this company as witness, you have spoken the words and performed the rites which unite your lives.

By the power vested in me by the State of [Ohio], I therefore, declare you, ____<bride>_________ and ____<groom> _________ , husband and wife, married in accordance with the laws of the State of [Ohio].

[WAIT FOR END OF EMBRACE]

Ladies and gentlemen may I present the happy couple: _____<bride>________ and _________<groom> ______________, now married!

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