Ceremony # 4 * Civil *
*Less than 5 minutes long*
Words of Welcome
Welcome! We are gathered here today as family and friends, to witness, support, and celebrate as Jane and Joe make their promises to each other and to their marriage. May this day shine eternally in each of our hearts.
Marriage Address
Joe & Jane, I would ask that each of you remember to treat the other with respect, and remind yourself often of what has brought you together today. I would request that you give the highest priority to the tenderness, gentleness, and kindness that your marriage deserves. And when frustration and difficulty assail your union...as they do in every relationship at one time or another...I would ask that you focus not so much on the part that seems difficult, but concentrate on that which is still good between you. In this way, when clouds of trouble hide the sun from your lives and you lose sight of it for the moment, you will remember that the sun is still there. And if each of you will take responsibility for the quality of your life together, it will be marked with abundance and joy.
Declaration of Intent
Joe & Jane, do you share these understandings about your marital commitment? If so, please say…we do. Then with this understanding, please join hands…and with your hands…your hearts.
Wedding Vows
Jane, do you take Joe to be your husband? Do you promise to love, honor, cherish and protect him, forsaking all others and holding only unto him?
If so, please say…I do.
And Joe, do you take Jane as your wife? Do you promise to love, honor, cherish and protect her, forsaking all others and holding only unto her?
If so, please say…I do.
Exchanging of Rings
The rings…
The circle symbolizes many precious hopes and joys. It is beyond beginnings, and without end. It will be the outward sign of your marriage. It represents, too, your inner completeness and wholeness. The rings you have chosen to wear are now joined, such that wherever you go, you will return again to each other.
Ring Vows
Joe, please take Jane’s ring, place it partially on her finger and repeat after me.
I Joe, take you, Jane as my wife.
To have and to hold,
in sickness and in health,
for richer and for poorer,
in joy and in sorrow.
I promise my love to you.
Jane, please take Joe’s ring, place it partially on his finger and repeat after me.
I Jane, take you, Joe as my husband.
To have and to hold,
in sickness and in health,
for richer and for poorer,
in joy and in sorrow.
I promise my love to you.
Pronouncement
And so now, inasmuch, as you, Joe, and you Jane, have announced the truths that are already written within your hearts, we observe joyfully that you have declared yourselves to be husband and wife.
The Kiss
You may kiss your bride.
Presentation
And now it is my great honor and pleasure to present to you…
Mr. & Mrs. ________________
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