Introduction
Welcome! we have come here today, some from a very long way, to witness the marriage of [Name] and [Name].
You have been asked here today because each one of you has touched their
lives in some special way. They hold you, their family and friends, as a
valued part of what they are as individuals, and what they will become
as a married couple. Your presence is a gift of support and caring, and
they appreciate your sharing their very special moment.
We are gathered here, not to witness the beginning of what will be, but
rather what already is. We do not create this marriage, because we
cannot. We can and do, however, celebrate with [Name] and [Name], and
their families the wondrous and joyful occurrence that has already taken
place in their lives.
True marriage is more than joining the bonds of marriage of two persons.
In its right relation, it’s the uniting of two minds already in
harmony. When such a true bond already exists between two people, it is
fitting that an outer acknowledgement be made. This acknowledgement is
the prime reason for this gathering & this ceremony. We are here to
bear witness to the entry into the closer relationship of life partners
of these beloved friends who are already one in spirit.
Statement of Intention
[Name] and [Name], will you receive each other as your lawful wedded
spouse, in equal love, living together as friend and mate, as partners
sharing the full measure of your days?
Response: We do.
Comments to Couple
Treat yourselves and each other with respect, and remind yourselves
often of what brought you together. Take responsibility for making the
other feel safe, and give the highest priority to the tenderness,
gentleness and kindness that your connection deserves.
When frustration, difficulty and fear assail your relationship, as they
threaten all relationships at some time or another, remember to focus on
what is right between you, not only the part that seems wrong.
I wish for you that you always need one another, not to fill an
emptiness, but to help each other know your fullness. May you want one
another, but not out of lack. May you embrace but not encircle one
another. May you succeed in all important ways with each other, and not
fail in the little graces. May you always be able to talk things over,
to confide in each other, to laugh with each other, to enjoy life
together, and to share moments of quiet and peace, when the day is done.
May you have a lifetime of happiness and a home of warmth and
understanding.
As your hands are joined, will you now take your vows?
Vows
[Name]: I promise you [Name]
That I will be your husband/wife/partner/spouse from this day forward,
To be faithful and honest in every way,
To honor the faith and trust you place in me,
To love and respect you in your successes and failures,
To make you laugh and to be there when you cry,
To care for you in sickness and in health,
And to be your companion and your friend,
On this journey that we make together.
[Repeat for other partner]
Presentation of Rings
These rings are the symbol of unity in which your two lives are now
joined in one unbroken circle which wherever you go you will always
return to one another.
Each says to the other:
May this ring be a symbol of the love we share for each other
Pronouncement
[Name] and [Name],
As you increase in love and understanding, may your joys stand victoriously against the storm of circumstances.
In the embrace of mutual respect, may you each complete the unfinished pattern of your true selves.
Let the passing of the days and the years deepen the love of your union and make it full of tenderness and grace.
May you strive all the rest of your lives to meet this commitment to each other with the same love and devotion that you now possess.
Now, enjoy your friends and family who gathered to spend this day with you. This group of loved ones will, likely, never be together in the same place again. Take a moment now to celebrate how each person has touched your life and why they are here with you today.
It is now my pleasure to present [Name] and [Name], now [husband/wife/married/life partners/legally married/etc]. May your love for each other grow. You may now seal this ceremony with a kiss.
