Here are some wedding vows for your marriage ceremony. I am very happy to perform civil or religious services for your wedding day as I feel that all marriage is honorable. You have the civil non-religious vows on top and the Christian vows for a religious ceremony below the civil vows. You should feel free to use these or write your own vows for a custom ceremony, which make the most memorable ceremonies, in my opinion. You can cut and paste any parts of the ceremony or something else that you may find over the Internet. I am here to assist you in making your special day as joyful as possible.
Below the Christian vows are Bible scripture verses that are appropriate and popular for a Christian wedding ceremony. Let your marriage start out right with Bible verses and let the God of the Bible be a part of your special wedding day.
Here are some ceremonies for your review:
The Good Book
Genesis 2:18 KJV:
And the Lord God said, It is not good that the man should be alone; I will make him an help meet (mate) for him.
Proverbs 18:22:
Whoso finds a wife finds something good, and obtains favor of the Lord.
Ephesians 5:25 KJV:
Husbands, love your wives, even as Christ also loved the church, and gave himself for it;
Civil Vows:
Family and friends, we welcome you today to witness the marriage of [groom] and [bride]. You have shared and contributed to their lives in the past, and by witnessing their marriage ceremony today, [bride and groom] ask you to share in their future.
Marriage is a promise, made in the hearts of two people who love each other, which takes a lifetime to fulfill. Within the circle of its love, marriage encompasses all of life's most important relationships. A wife and a husband are each other's lover, teacher, listener, critic, and best friend.
It is into this state that [bride and groom] wish to enter.
Who gives their blessings to this union?
The parents and/or guests say "we do".
If anyone present can show just cause as to why this couple may not be legally joined together, you should now declare it, or hereafter hold your peace. (silence)
[bride and groom], I charge and require of you both, as before a bar of justice, and in the presence of these witnesses, that if either of you know of any legal or moral impediment to this marriage, you do now reveal the same. (silence)
[groom], do you take [bride] to be your wife? Will you love, honor, and cherish her, in good times and in bad, and do you promise to stay true to her as long as you both shall live?
(groom) I do.
[bride], do you take [groom] to be your husband? Will you love, honor, and cherish him, in good times and in bad, and do you promise to stay true to him as long as you both shall live?
(bride) I do.
[bride and groom], may you pledge to each other to be loving friends and partners in marriage. To talk and to listen, to trust and appreciate one another; to respect and cherish each other's uniqueness, and to support, comfort, and strengthen each other through life's joys and sorrows. May you promise to share hopes, thoughts, and dreams as you build your lives together. May your lives be ever intertwined, your love keeping you together. May you build a home that is compassionate to all, full of respect and honour for others and each other. May your home be forever filled with peace, happiness, and love.
[bride and groom], please face each other and hold hands. [groom], as you look at [bride], repeat these words after me:
(groom) I [groom], take you [bride], to be my wife, to have and to hold, from this day forth, to love, honour, and cherish, to comfort and respect, in sorrow or in joy, in hardship or in plenty, so long as we both shall live.
[bride], as you look at [groom], repeat these words after me:
(bride) I [bride], take you [groom], to be my husband, to have and to hold, from this day forth, to love, honour, and cherish, to comfort and respect, in sorrow or in joy, in hardship or in plenty, so long as we both shall live.
The ring is a symbol of unity into which your two lives are now joined in an unbroken circle; in which, wherever you go, you will return to one another. May these rings serve as a reminder of this day and may you always remember the vows that you have to each other.
(groom) [bride], I offer this ring as a symbol of my love and devotion. Let it always be a reminder of my vows to you.
(bride) [groom], I offer this ring as a symbol of my love and devotion. Let it always be a reminder of my vows to you.
(Optional unity candle ceremony or substitute sand for a beach wedding)
[bride] and [groom], the two separate candles symbolize your separate lives, separate families and separate sets of friends. I ask that each of you take one of the lit candles and that together you light the centre candle.
The individual candles represent your lives before today. Lighting the centre candle represents that your two lives are now joined to one light, and represents the joining of your two families and circles of friends into one.
[bride] and [groom], may your home be a haven of peace and your relationship be one of truth and understanding. May you enjoy length of days, fulfillment of hopes, and peace and content of mind as you, day by day, live and fulfill the terms of this covenant you have made with one another.
And now, for as much as you have made your vows, each to the other, and have declared the same by giving and receiving your rings, I pronounce that you are husband and wife.
You have the option of an abridged modern English version of this ceremony.
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, signifying unto us the mystical union that is betwixt Christ and his Church: which holy estate Christ adorned and beautified with his presence and first miracle that he wrought in Cana of Galilee, and is commended of Saint Paul to be honourable among all men: and therefore is not by any to be entered into unadvisedly or lightly; but reverently, discreetly, advisedly, soberly, and in the fear of God. Into this holy estate these two persons present come now to be joined. If any man can show just cause, why they may not lawfully be joined together, let him now speak, or else hereafter for ever hold his peace.
also speaking unto the Persons who are to be married, he shall say, 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 if any persons are joined together other than as God's Word doth allow, their marriage is not lawful. The Minister, if he shall have reason to doubt of the lawfulness of the proposed Marriage, may demand sufficient surety for his indemnification:
but if no impediment shall be alleged, or suspected, the Minster shall say to the Man,
JACK 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.
Then shall the Minster say unto the Woman,
JILL Wilt thou have this Man to thy wedded husband, to live together after God's ordinance in the holy estate of Matrimony? Wilt thou love him, comfort him, honour, 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.
Then shall the Minister say,
Who giveth this Woman to be married to this Man?
Then shall they give their troth to each other in this manner.
The Minister, receiving the Woman at her father's or friend's hands, shall cause the Man with his right hand to take the Woman by her right hand, and to say after him as followeth.
I Jack take thee Jill 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 ordinance; and thereto I plight thee my troth.
Then shall they loose their hands; and the Woman with her right hand taking the Man by his right hand, shall likewise say after the Minister,
I Jill take thee Jack 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, till death us do part, according to God's holy ordinance; and thereto I give thee my troth.
Then shall they again loose their hands; and the Man shall give unto the Woman a Ring in this wise: the Minister taking the ring shall deliver it unto the Man, to put it upon the fourth finger of the Woman's left hand.
And the Man holding the Ring there, and taught by the Minister, shall say,
WITH this Ring I thee wed: In the Name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost. Amen.
And, before delivering the Ring to the Man, the Minister may say as followeth, BLESS, O Lord, this Ring, that he who gives it and she who wears it may abide in thy peace, and continue in they favour, unto their life's end; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
Then, the Man, leaving the Ring upon the fourth finger of the Woman's left hand, the Minister shall say, Let us pray.
Then shall the Minister and People, still standing, say the Lord's Prayer.
OUR Father, who art in heaven, Hallowed be thy Name. Thy Kingdom come. Thy will be done, On Earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our trespasses, As we forgive those who trespass against us. And lead us not into temptation, But deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever and ever. Amen.
Then shall the Minister add, 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 they, 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.
Then the Minister may add, O GOD, who hast so consecrated the state of Matrimony that in it is represented the spiritual marriage and unity betwixt Christ and his Church; Look mercifully upon these thy servants, that they may love, honour, and cherish each other, and so live together in faithfulness and patience, in wisdom and true godliness, that their home may be a haven of blessing and of peace; through the same Jesus Christ our Lord, who liveth and reigneth with thee and the Holy Spirit ever, one God, world without end. Amen.
Then shall the Minister join their right hands together, and say, Those whom God hath joined together let no man put asunder. Then shall the Minister speak unto the company.
FORASMUCH as Jack and Jill having consented together in holy wedlock, and have witnessed the same before God and this company, and thereto have given and pledged their troth, each to the 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 Man and the Wife kneeling, 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 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.
Dearly beloved, we are gathered here in the sight of God and in the presence of these witnesses, to join together Nicole and James, in holy matrimony; this is an honorable estate, instituted by God, and signifying unto us the mystical union which exists between Christ and his Church; It is therefore not to be entered into unadvisedly, but reverently, discreetly, and with the approval of God. It is into this holy estate these two persons come now to be joined. (You may be seated)
(Charge to couple)
I require and charge you both, as you stand in the presence of God, before whom the secrets of all hearts are disclosed, that, having duly considered the holy covenant you are about to make, you do now declare before this company your pledge of faith, each to the other. Be well assured that if these solemn vows are kept, as God's Word demands, and if steadfastly you endeavor to do the will of your heavenly Father, God will bless your marriage, will grant you fulfillment in it, and will establish your home in peace.
Vows of Intent
(Then shall the officiant say to the man)
Brandon, do you take this woman to be your wedded wife, to live together in the holy estate of matrimony? Will you love her, comfort her, honor and keep her, in sickness and in health, and forsaking all others keep yourself only for her so long as you both shall live?
I Do
(Then shall the officiant say to the woman)
Nicole, do you take this man to be your wedded husband, to live together in the holy estate of matrimony? Will you love him, comfort him, honor and keep him in sickness and in health; and forsaking all others keep yourself only for him so long as you both shall live?
I Do
Option 1 Request Parents of Groom for Blessing
Bride Given Away By Escort
Through out time and tradition, all over the world it has always been the distinct honor and privilege for someone to present the bride in marriage. As we come together, who presents (bride) in marriage?
I do (or her mother and I)
Option 3 Rose Service - Distribution of Roses to Mothers
Officiant: As they come before us to be married, Brandon and Nicolewish to acknowledge and thank their parents for the love and support they have given them. The flowers they give to their parents and grandparents represent the feeling of gratitude in the hearts of Brandon and Nicole. This moment marks a major change in their lives, but the ties of love and friendship with their parents will continue.
Option for Special Readings or Music
Song of Solomon 8:6-7
Ecclesiastes 4:9-11
Option 4 Blessing of the Hands
Officiant addresses audience: Just as the brides' hand was presented in marriage. We would like to take a moment to bless the hands of Nicole and Brandon. For it is through the hands that we demonstrate our love and commitment to one another.
Nicole and Brandon, please face each other and join both hands so that we may bless them.
Reading by officiant:
These are the hands of your best friend, young and strong and full of love for you.
They are being held by yours on your wedding day as you two promise to love each other for the rest of your lives.
These are also the hands that will work alongside yours as together you build your future and share your inner most dreams and secrets together.
These are the very 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 threatens to overwhelm you.
The hands that you hold are the same hands that will countless times wipe the tears from your eyes; tears of sorrow and tears of joy.
These are the hands that will help you to hold your family as one.
And these are the hands that will give you strength when you need it most.
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.
Prayer:
God, bless these hands that you see before you this day. May they always be held by one another. Keep them tender and gentle as they nurture each other in their wondrous love. Help these hands to continue building a relationship founded in your grace. May Nicole and Brandon, see their four hands as healer, protector, shelter and guide. We ask this in your name, Amen.
Wedding Vows (sample 1)
I, Brandon, take you, Nicole, to be 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, /as long as we both shall live, / this is my promise to you.
(Then shall they loose their hands; and the woman, with her right hand taking the man by his right hand, shall say after the minister,)
I, Nicole, take you, Brandon,to be 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, / as long as we both shall live, / this is my promise to you.
Option for Special Readings or Music
Poems
Special Music
Ring Exchange
(Then, the officiant, taking the ring or rings, shall say,)
I hold in my hands beautiful rings. They are made of precious metal representing two precious lives that stand before me. The ring has no beginning, no end...it represents the circle of life-the circle of love. May they be given, and received, to remind you of the vows you have made this day.
(Then the officiant may say,)
Let us pray.
Bless O lord, the giving of these rings, that they who wear them may abide in thy peace, and continue in thy favor; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
(The minister shall then deliver the proper ring to the man to put upon the third finger of the woman's left hand. The man, holding the ring there, shall say after the minister,)
Ring Vows (sample 1)
In token and pledge/ of my constant faith/ and abiding love/ with this ring I thee wed/ in the name of the Father/ the Son/ and the Holy Spirit/
(Then, if there is a second ring, the minister shall deliver it to the woman to put upon the third finger of the man's left hand; and the woman, holding the ring there, shall say after the minister the same vows)
Pastoral Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank you for allowing us this opportunity to be present in these surroundings - where dreams come true, where a couple comes together in marriage. Thank you for Nicole and Brandon as they begin this, their journey through life together. Walk with them each step of the way giving them the faith, and the wisdom, to face together whatever the future may hold. In your name we pray, amen
Option 7 Blessing To The Couple
Receive this blessing as one to the other
Entreat me not to leave you or from walking beside you; for where you go, I will go, where your home shall be so shall my home be, your family shall be my family, your friends shall be my friends, and your God shall be my God. Ruth 1:16
Pronouncement
Forasmuch as Nicole and Brandon have consented together in holy wedlock, and have witnessed the same before God and this company, and thereto have pledged their faith each to the other, and have declared the same by joining hands and by giving and receiving rings, I pronounce that they are husband and wife. Those whom God hath joined together, let not man put asunder. Amen.
(Then shall the officiant say)
You may kiss the bride.
(Officiant requests congregation to stand and couples face their guests)
Ladies and Gentlemen, it is with the greatest of pleasure I present to you for the very first time, as husband and wife, Mr. and Mrs. Smith.
Custom vows:
"Dearly Beloved,
"We are gathered here today in the sight of God, to celebrate one of life's greatest moments."
"To give recognition to the worth and beauty of love, and to add our blessings to the words which shall unite Peter and Kristen in holy matrimony"
"Marriage is an honorable estate, created by God, and signifying unto us the mystical union between a man and a woman, which also exists between Christ and the Church."
"Peter and Kristen, only love will maintain a marriage. Mankind did not create love, love is created by God. Love is freely given and freely accepted, just as God's love of us is unconditional and free."
"As you travel through life together, I caution you to remember that the true measure of success, the true avenue to joy and peace, is to be found within the love you hold in your hearts. I would ask that you hold the key to your heart very tightly."
VOWS
"Would you please face each other and join hands."
"Peter do you take Kristen to be your wife? Do you promise to love, honor, and protect her, forsaking all others and holding only to her?" ("I do")
"Kristen do you take Peter to be your Husband? Do you promise to love, honor, and protect him, forsaking all others and holding only to him? ("I do")
"I, Peter take you Kristen to be my wife. To have and to hold, in sickness and in health, for richer or for poorer, and I promise my love to you forevermore. "
"I, Kristen take you Peter to be my Husband. To have and to hold, in sickness and in health, for richer or for poorer, and I promise my love to you forevermore."
CORINTHIANS 13
"A marriage ceremony represents one of life's greatest commitments, but also is a declaration of love. I wish to read to you what Paul wrote of love in a letter to the Corinthians."
"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, always perseveres. Love never fails"
EXCHANGE OF RINGS
"Wedding rings are an outward and visible sign of an inward spiritual grace, signifying to all the uniting of this man and this woman in marriage."
"Peter place the ring on Kristen, and repeat after me."
"With this ring, I thee wed. In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen."
"Kristen place the ring on Peter, and repeat after me."
"With this ring, I thee wed. In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen."
EPHESIANS
"Kristen, show reverence for your own husband, as unto the Lord. For the husband is the head of the wife, even as Christ is the head of the church."
"Peter, love your wife, even as Christ also loved the church, and gave Himself for it."
"For this cause shall man leave his father and mother, and shall be joined unto his wife, and the two shall become one flesh."
CHARGE THE COUPLE
"Peter and Kristen, as the two of you come into this marriage uniting as husband and wife, and as you this day affirm your faith and love for one another, I would ask that you always remember to cherish each other as special and unique individuals, that you respect the thoughts, ideas and suggestions of one another."
PRAYER
"Dear heavenly Father, Our hearts are filled with great happiness on Peter and Kristen's, wedding day, as they come before You pledging their hearts and lives to one another. Bless this union we pray, and walk beside Peter and Kristen, throughout all their lives together. AMEN"
PRONOUNCEMENT AS HUSBAND AND WIFE
"Peter and Kristen, in so much as the two of you have agreed to live together in Matrimony, have promised your love for each other by these vows, the giving of these rings and the joining of your hands, I now declare you to be husband and wife."
"May the Lord bless you and keep you, giving you peace, joy and happiness throughout your lives."
"Congratulations, you may kiss your bride."
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More custom vows from couples
Wedding CeremonyProcessional
The bride and the wedding party walk up the aisle to the altar, usually accompanied by music
Invocation
Beloved GOD, Essence of Love, and Source of Hope, Open our hearts and fill us with Your Presence.You graciously give to us the longing for love and the capability of loving, and we give you thanks for Elischeba and Habdens, for their beautiful hearts and willing spirits, and for the example of love that they embody here today. Elevate us to an awareness of the Sacred and the Eternal, as we celebrate this miraculous moment in their lives. Be with them on this joyous occasion of showing their love and making their vows; and be with us, their witnesses, that we might all be inspired by the blessings shared today. Amen
Welcoming
Good Morning. It is truly a blessing from heaven for two people to find one another and to love so deeply that they embrace the holy bond of marriage.That is why we are all here today, to witness and celebrate the unity in the holy bond of marriage between Elischeba and Habdens.On behalf of them, I welcome you all.
Foundation
Marriage is a gift from God, a miracle.After speaking to you both, it is obvious that you already know some of the great blessings marriage has to offer.It is an opportunity to feel the joy of taking care of someone who takes care of you, to be challenged towards growth yet gently nurtured, to love deeply and receive it in return.It is about trust, friendship and having a partner to share all life has to offer. It is a commitment to participate in a process of mutual evolution, understanding and forgiveness. It is indeed a sacred union to be treated with reverence.
Marriage is not a place to hide from the world.It is a safe place to grow and become wiser.It is a place to evolve into better people; so that you can go out in the world and make a difference by spreading the joy and wisdom that you have found with each other. Together in this marriage, you shall contribute more fully, for you both shall be more full.
Elischeba, Habdens is a gift to you from God, but he is not a gift for you alone.It is God’s will that in your love, this man might find within himself a greater sense of who he is meant to be.You are asked to see the good in this man, to accept him for who he is and who he shall be.In this way, God’s purpose shall be accomplished in this relationship.May this man find the kingdom of heaven through the love you share.
And so it is with you also Habdens, that although Elischeba is God’s gift to you, she is not a gift intended for you alone. You are asked by God to so love this woman, that in your love she might find herself as God has created her, so beautiful and strong and brave and true, that the entire world might be blessed by the presence of a woman who shines so. May she relax in your arms as she has never relaxed before.May she know, from now on, that there is one on whose love she can depend on forever.
May you both create, with God, a piece of heaven on earth.
Reading Proverbs Silent Blessing We now close our eyes and bring to mind any loved ones who could not be here today. Though they are absent physically, we invoke, through our thought and prayers, their loving presence. We pray that God might multiply beyond measure the blessings from these loved ones to this loving couple, and any children who might one day be a part of this union. Now, from our hearts, we ourselves visualize and sanctify all the blessings we would bestow on Elischeba and Habdens in their lives as a couple and a family. And in our sincere desire to bless, we in turn, are blessed also. Blessed Be. Candle lighting CeremonyWithin each human being burns the spark of the Divine.When two people love one another with devotion and freedom, they kindle the awareness of that spark in each other as nothing else quite can do. The lighted candle is symbolic it represents the light and truth in the human heart, mind, and soul.Fire also symbolizes both purity and passion.For many, the flame means the security of home and family, the warmth of the hearth.
Take into your beings the warmth, radiance and light that the divine flame represents.Let it light your way on the journey of life that you are about to embark on.
In committing to one another today, in the spirit of being born new to one another, you kindle each other’s divine light and promise always to see that light in one another-to nurture and tend that divine flame in your partner as best you can each day-especially at the times it may be hardest to see, and the times your partner may doubt or forget the existence of that light within him-or herself.
.
Elischeba, take this candle now and symbolically enter the sacred trust to honor the divine spark in Habdens by lighting it from this candle representing the Divine Source. (She lights candle)
Habdens, take this candle now and symbolically enter the sacred trust to honor the divine spark in Elischeba by lighting it from this candle representing the Divine Source. (He lights candle)
If at this time you wish to affirm your free choice to unite as partners in marriage, please light the unlit candle together now. (They light unlit candle together) As you bring your individual flames together to symbolically form the new and greater flame of your marriage, never forget that the light of your union is made up of your unique, individual expressions of light and is continually sustained and renewed by your connection to the Divine Spark, the eternal light of God.
The candle you lit together symbolizes your marriage, your willingness to surrender to something greater than yourselves. May the light of your marriage, Elischeba and Habdens, be a beacon in the night, a safe harbor from the storms of life. May your future be made infinitely brighter by the light and the love that you share.
The Questions/Ring CeremonyDo you have your rings? (They respond, “Yes”)
The circle has long been a symbol of God. Without beginning or end and with no point of weakness, the circle is a reminder of the eternal quality of God and of unending strength. Let the seamless circle of these rings become the symbol of your endless love. 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 a 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 glorious union that you are now creating.
God, bless these rings and the two who exchange them. Fill them with your Holy
Presence.Keep them safe in the circle of Your protection and love.
Habdens, as you place this ring on Elischeba, I now ask you: Do you take this woman to be your lawful wedded wife?Do you promise God, Elischeba and all of us here that from this point forward, your arms may be her shelter and your heart may be her guide? Do you promise to support her and nourish her and to love and respect and honor her for the rest of your days on earth?If so please answer “I do.”
Elischeba, as you place this ring on Habdens, I now ask you: Do you take this man to be your lawful wedded husband?Do you promise God, Habdens and all of us here that from this point forward, your arms may be his shelter and your heart may be his guide? Do you promise to support him and nourish him and to love and respect and honor him for the rest of your days on earth?If so please answer “I do.”
ReadingVowsPlease join hands, look into each other's eyes, and repeat after me:
From this day on
I choose you to be my beloved soul mate,
to live with you and laugh with you;
to stand by your side and sleep in your arms;
to be joy to your heart and food to your soul;
to bring out the best in you always;
to be the best I can be, just for you;
to celebrate with you in the good times;
to struggle with you in the bad;
to solace you when you are down‑hearted;
to wipe your tears with my hands;
to care for you with my entire being;
to share with you everything that I have;
as we treat each other with tenderness, compassion and love.
Minister’s Blessing
1 Corinthians 13
If I speak in the tongues of men and of angels, but have not 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 have not love, I am nothing.
If I give away all I have, and if I deliver my body to be burned, but have not love, I gain
nothing.
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 ends; as for prophecies, they will pass away; as for tongues, they will
cease; as for knowledge, it will pass away.
For our knowledge is imperfect and our prophecy is imperfect;
but when the perfect comes, the imperfect will pass away.
When I was a child, I spoke like a child, I thought like a child, I reasoned like a child;
when I became a man, I gave up childish ways.
For now we see in a mirror dimly, but then face to face. Now I know in part; then I
shall understand fully, even as I have been fully understood.
So faith, hope, love abide, these three; but the greatest of these is love.
Prayer
Minister’s BlessingElischeba and Habdens, younow have the opportunity for expressing through your union and partnership, God’s glory, love and healing. How could this be? Through devotion and service to each other. Through patience, kindness, total acceptance of each other, tempered by the willingness to change. You will be tempted, as time goes by, to take for granted the love which today seems so precious and dear, to speak to and treat each other in ways that do not reflect the highest good in both of you. Resist it.Promise to always see the goodness in your partner, even when it’s especially difficult. God will provide you the way, if you are willing. He is the key to your success as a married couple. Call on Him devotedly and consistently to guide your thinking and bless your home. May this marriage be to you a heavenly sanctuary. God bless you.PronouncementElischeba and Habdens, in the presence of God, your family and friends today, you have openly declared your wishes to be united in marriage, spoken the words and performed the rites which unite your lives.It is my legal right as a minister and my greatest joy and privilege to declare you husband and wife. You may now kiss the bride. Benediction
The two of you are now joined in one unbroken circle. Wherever you go, may you always return to one another in your togetherness. May you two find in each other the love for which all men and women long. May you grow in understanding and in compassion. May the home that you establish be such a place of sanctuary that all who visit will find there a friend. And may the Lord bless you and keep you forevermore. Amen.
Conclusion
And now, ladies and gentlemen, it is my pleasure to present to you for the first time, Mr. and Mrs. Smith
Live joyfully with the wife whom thou lovest all the days of the life of thy vanity, which he hath given thee under the sun, all the days of thy vanity: for that [is] thy portion in [this] life, and in thy labour which thou takest under the sun.
Pro 5:18:
Let thy fountain be blessed: and rejoice with the wife of thy youth.
Mat 19:5:
And said, For this cause shall a man leave father and mother, and shall cleave to his wife: and they twain shall be one flesh?
Genesis 2:18:
And the Lord God said, {It is} not good that the man should be alone; I will make him an help meet for him.
Genesis 2:24 KJV:
Therefore shall a man leave his father and his mother, and shall cleave unto his wife: and they shall be one flesh.
Proverbs 18:22 KJV:
Whoso findeth a wife findeth a good {thing}, and obtaineth favour of the Lord.
Jeremiah 29:6 KJV:
Take ye wives, and beget sons and daughters; and take wives for your sons, and give your daughters to husbands, that they may bear sons and daughters; that ye may be increased there, and not diminished.
Hosea 2:19-20 KJV:
And I will betroth thee unto me for ever; yea, I will betroth thee unto me in righteousness, and in judgment, and in loving kindness, and in mercies. I will even betroth thee unto me in faithfulness: and thou shalt know the Lord.
2Cr 6:14 Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers: for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? and what communion hath light with darkness?
I Corinthians 7:2-4 KJV:
Nevertheless, to avoid fornication, let every man have his own wife, and let every woman have her own husband. Let the husband render unto the wife due benevolence: and likewise also the wife unto the husband. The wife hath not power of her own body, but the husband: and likewise also the husband hath not power of his own body, but the wife.
1 Timothy 5:14 KJV:
I will therefore that the younger women marry, bear children, guide the house, give none occasion to the adversary to speak reproachfully.
Hebrews 13:4 KJV:
Marriage is honourable in all, and the bed undefiled: but whoremongers and adulterers God will judge.
Ephesians 5:22-33 KJV:
Wives, submit yourselves unto your own husbands, as unto the Lord. For the husband is the head of the wife, even as Christ is the head of the church: and he is the saviour of the body. Therefore as the church is subject unto Christ, so {let} the wives {be} to their own husbands in every thing. Husbands, love your wives, even as Christ also loved the church, and gave himself for it; That he might sanctify and cleanse it with the washing of water by the word, That he might present it to himself a glorious church, not having spot, or wrinkle, or any such thing; but that it should be holy and without blemish. So ought men to love their wives as their own bodies. He that loveth his wife loveth himself. For no man ever yet hated his own flesh; but nourisheth and cherisheth it, even as the Lord the church: For we are members of his body, of his flesh, and of his bones. For this cause shall a man leave his father and mother, and shall be joined unto his wife, and they two shall be one flesh. This is a great mystery: but I speak concerning Christ and the church. Nevertheless let every one of you in particular so love his wife even as himself; and the wife see that she reverence her husband.
I Peter 3:1 KJV:
Likewise, ye wives, be in subjection to your own husbands; that, if any obey not the word, they also may without the word be won by the conversation of the wives;
I Peter 3:7 KJV:
Likewise, ye husbands, dwell with {them} according to knowledge, giving honor unto the wife, as unto the weaker vessel, and as being heirs together of the grace of life; that your prayers be not hindered.
I Corinthians 13 Known as the LOVE Chapter of the Bible.
Charity is translated as LOVE from the Greek.
If you have love, you have charity and if you have charity it shows love.
13:1 Though I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, and have not charity, I am become as sounding brass, or a tinkling cymbal.
And though I have the gift of prophecy, and understand all mysteries, and all knowledge; and though I have all faith, so that I could remove mountains, and have not LOVE, I am nothing. And though I bestow all my goods to feed the poor, and though I give my body to be burned, and have not charity, it profiteth me nothing.
LOVE suffereth long, and is kind; charity envieth not; charity vaunteth not itself, is not puffed up, Doth not behave itself unseemly, seeketh not her own, is not easily provoked, thinketh no evil; Rejoiceth not in iniquity, but rejoiceth in the truth; Beareth all things, believeth all things, hopeth all things, endureth all things.
LOVE never faileth: but whether there be prophecies, they shall fail; whether there be tongues, they shall cease; whether there be knowledge, it shall vanish away. For we know in part, and we prophesy in part. But when that which is perfect is come, then that which is in part shall be done away. When I was a child, I spake as a child, I understood as a child, I thought as a child: but when I became a man, I put away childish things.
For now we see through a glass, darkly; but then face to face: now I know in part; but then shall I know even as also I am known. And now abideth faith, hope, love, these three; but the greatest of these is LOVE.
The virtuous woman - God's idea for the best marriage partner.
Provers 31:10
Who can find a virtuous woman?
for her price is far above rubies.
The heart of her husband doth safely trust in her, so that he shall have no need of spoil. She will do him good and not evil all the days of her life.
She seeketh wool, and flax, and worketh willingly with her hands.
She is like the merchants' ships; she bringeth her food from afar.
She riseth also while it is yet night, and giveth meat to her household, and a portion to her maidens.
She considereth a field, and buyeth it: with the fruit of her hands she planteth a vineyard. She girdeth her loins with strength, and strengtheneth her arms. She perceiveth that her merchandise is good: her candle goeth not out by night. She layeth her hands to the spindle, and her hands hold the distaff.
She stretcheth out her hand to the poor; yea, she reacheth forth her hands to the needy. She is not afraid of the snow for her household: for all her household are clothed with scarlet.
She maketh herself coverings of tapestry; her clothing is silk and purple.
Her husband is known in the gates, when he sitteth among the elders of the land. She maketh fine linen, and selleth it; and delivereth girdles unto the merchant.
Strength and honour are her clothing; and she shall rejoice in time to come.
She openeth her mouth with wisdom; and in her tongue is the law of kindness.
She looketh well to the ways of her household, and eateth not the bread of idleness. Her children arise up, and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praiseth her.
Many daughters have done virtuously, but thou excellest them all.
Favour is deceitful, and beauty is vain: but a woman that feareth the LORD, she shall be praised. Give her of the fruit of her hands; and let her own works praise her in the gates.
May you find a virtuous woman - God's idea for the best marriage partner.
Hand-fasting is a symbol used in Celtic/Keltic and other cultures as a symbol of marriage. It is a non-denominational religion-specific, so it can be Christian. The symbol can be used by anyone, since it expresses part of the reality of holy matrimony. As it is used in the Universal Church, during the wedding ceremony, the couple join hands and their hands are loosely tied by a rope in a loose knot. I have seen this done several times in the Episcopalian Church using the end of the priest's stole. The hand fasting lasts only for a few seconds, really, while the couple exchange their vows.
The couple exchange some symbolic objects: the husband gives the wife wheat to provide for our home - the wife gives the husband some woven cloth to provide for our home - the husband gives a dagger, for the defense of our home the wife gives a Bible, for the defense of our home. At the end of it all, they turn to leave and are confronted with a broom which has been put in their path. They have to get over it - This is a symbol of the obstacles in marriage and life in general. This is a symbol that what marriage is about is who sweeps the floor, and does the work needed to make the marriage and the house work. It is not just pretty dresses, dining out and romance. You will see this particular symbolic action in Celtic cultures.
Groom, please hold Bride's hands palms up, so you may see the gift that they are to you. These are the hands of your best friend, smooth, young and carefree, that are holding yours on your wedding day, as she promises to passionately love you and cherish you through the years, for a lifetime of happiness.
These are the hands that will hold each child in tender love, soothing them through illness and hurt, supporting and encouraging them along the way, knowing when it is time to let go. These are the hands that will massage tension from you neck and back in the evenings after you’ve both had a long hard day.
These are the hands that will hold you tight as you struggle through difficult times. These are the hands that will comfort you when you are sick, or console you when you are grieving.
These are the hands that will hold you in joy and excitement and hope, each time she tells you that you are to have another child, that together you have created a new life. These are the hands that will give you support as she encourages you to chase down your dreams. Together as a team, everything you wish for can be realized.
God, bless these hands that you see before you this day. May they always be held by one another. Give them the strength to hold on during the storms of stress and the dark of disillusionment. Keep them tender and gentle as they nurture each other in their wondrous love. Help these hands to continue building a relationship founded in your grace, rich in caring, and devoted in reaching for your perfection. May [Groom] and [Bride] see their four hands as healer, protector, shelter and guide. We ask this in Jesus name, Amen.
Bride, please face Groom and hold his hands, palms up, so that you may see the gift that they are to you.
Bride, please face Groom and hold his hands, palms up, so that you may see the gift that they are to you.
These are the hands that will passionately love you and cherish you through the years, for a lifetime of happiness. 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 comfort you in illness and hold you when fear or grief fills you. These are the hands that will give you support and celebrate with you in your accomplishments.
Groom, please hold Bride hands, palms up, so that you may see the gift that they are to you.
These are the hands that will hold you tight as you struggle through difficult times. They are the hands that will comfort you when you are sick or console you when you are grieving. These are the hands that will passionately love you and cherish you through the year, for a lifetime of happiness. These are the hands that will give you support as she encourages you to fulfill your dreams. Together, as a team, everything you wish for can be realized.
WELCOMING REMARKS: BY BISHOP IN SPANISH AT YOUR DISCRETIONJuan Antonio y Mavel, están aquí presentes frente sus familiares y amistades para ser unidos en matrimonio. Esto que realizan hoy es un acto de fe. Esta fe puede crecer, desarrollarse y perseverar, pero sólo si ambos deciden que sea así. (BISHOP you can just say a few words about marriage and love instead of the next 2 paragraphs, this is just an example of what I think might be appropriate and the flow of the ceremony)
Si se aseguran de que la base de su matrimonio sea la devoción que tienen el uno por el otro, no sólo en este momento, sino para todos los días por venir, entonces las esperanzas y los sueños que ustedes traen hoy aquí estarán mas cerca de convertirse en realidad. Trabajen día a día para que su amor nunca sea borrado por lo común ni oscurecido por lo ordinario de la vida.
La dedicación, el amor, y la alegría sólo pueden crecer cuando se alimentan día a día. Tengan fe en su destino común tan firmemente como ustedes tienen fe en vosotros mismos. Sólo con esta fe y este espíritu se puede forjar una unión que se fortalecerá y durara todos los días de sus vidas.
BISHOP: ENGLISH Juan Antonio and Mavel, in presenting yourselves here today to be joined in marriage, you perform an act of faith. This faith can grow and develop and last, but only if you both decide to make it so. A lasting and growing love is not guaranteed by any ritual.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 from this day forward that your love will never be blotted out by the common nor be obscured by the ordinary in life. Faults will surface where now you find comfort, and admiration can be shattered by the routine of daily life.Dedication, love, and joy can grow only 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.BISHOP SPANISH:Así pues, ya que queréis contraer santo Matrimonio, unid vuestras manos, manifestad vuestro consentimiento ante Dios y todos los aquí presente (se dan la mano derecha. As you have chosen to join your lives in marriage befote God and those here present,
please repeat after me: .
GROOM: I, Juan Antonio, take you, Mavel, as my friend and love, beside me and apart from me, in laughter and in tears, in conflict and tranquility, asking that you be no other than yourself, loving what I know of you, trusting what I do not know yet, in all the ways that life may find us.BISHOP: PLEASE REPEAT AFTER ME:BRIDE( in Spanish): Yo, Mavel, te tomo a ti, Juan Antonio, como mi esposo y amigo tal y como eres en la tranquilidad y en el conflicto, y prometo serte fiel en la prosperidad y la adversidad en la salud y en la enfermedad, y así amarte y respetarte todos los días de mi vida.BISHOP: “El Señor bendiga estos anillos que vais a entregaros uno al otro en señal de amor y de fidelidad. May God bless these rings you are about to exchange and may they serve as symbols of your love and devotion” ”Juan Antonio, place the ring on Mavel’s finger and repeat after me:”
Bishop and Groom
“Mavel, I give you this ring as a symbol of my vow, and with all that I am and all that I have, I shall love and honor you, in the name of God.”
”Mavel coloca el anillo en el dedo de Juan Antonio y repite después de mi:”Bishop and Bride “Juan Antonio, Te doy este anillo como símbolo de mi amor, y con todo lo que soy, y todo lo que tengo, te honrare y amare, en nombre de Dios.”BISHOP:“May this day shine eternally in your lives. May it add brilliance to every achievement and cast a divine light over any misfortune. May you care for each other in all sadness. May you give cheer to each other. May you give vitality to each other in all undertakings. May all that is virtuous, beautiful and honest, remain with you always.”“{Bishop instead of the this next paragraph you can just say anything you might consider appropriate, poem, bible reading, etc.}
In the years which shall bring Juan Antonio and Mavel into greater age and wisdom, we pray that their love shall be ever young; that they shall be able always to recover from moments of despair, the lithesome ways of buoyant youth. In this hope may they keep the vows made on this day, in freedom, teaching each other who they are, what they yet shall be, enabling them to know that in the fullness of being, they are more than themselves and more than each other; that they are all of us, and that together we share joyously the fruits of life.
”BISHOP: “Invito a las madres de los novios que se acerquen para la lectura:” Reading by Mother of the Groom: Colossians 3Therefore, as God's chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. Bear with each other and forgive whatever grievances you may have against one another. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity. Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful. Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom, and as you sing psalms, hymns and spiritual songs with gratitude in your hearts to God. And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through himLectura por Madre de la novia - Hilda Navarro:COLOSENSES 3:12-14 Asuman entonces, como elegidos por Dios, santo y bienamado, compasivos, amables, humildes, modestos, y pacientes, sean indulgentes uno con el otro y, si uno ha tenido quejas contra el otro, perdónense mutuamente; como el Señor los ha perdonado a Uds., así Uds. deben perdonar. Y por encima de todo pongan el amor, que sujeta todas las cosas juntas en perfecta armonía.Unity Candle Ceremony Bishop speaks: At this time we will have the lighting of the unity candle. Le pido a los padres de la novia y del novio que por favor se acerquen para que enciendan la vela. Wait until candles are lit-Bride and Groom please light your candle As they light this candle, let it represent the unity of Mavel and Juan Antonio in a new life together from this moment on. As this one light cannot be divided, neither shall their marriage or lives be divided. May the radiance of this one light be a testimony of your unity."Wait until candle is lit-BISHOP:“Now you will feel no rain, for each of you will be sanctuary to the other. Now you will feel no cold, for each of you will be warmth to the other. Now there is no isolation for you. Now there is no more loneliness. Now you are two, but there is only one life in front of you.Ahora ya no sentirán la lluvia, porque cada uno de ustedes será refugio para el otro. Ahora ya no sientan frío, porque cada uno de ustedes será el calor para el otro. Ahora ya no habrá aislamiento. Ahora ya no hay soledad. Ahora son dos, pero de ahora en adelante estarán unidos en una sola vida.”
Prayer by BISHOP (this is just an example, the payer is at your discretion)
Join with me as we ask God's blessing on this new formed family unit. Shall we pray?Eternal Father, creator, redeemer, keeper of our souls, we now turn to you, and as the first act of this couple in their newly formed union, we ask you to protect their home. May they always turn to you for guidance, for strength, for provision, for direction. May they glorify you in the choices they make, in the ministries they involve themselves in, in all that they do. Use them to draw others to yourself, and let them stand as a testimony to the world of your faithfulness. We ask this in Jesus name, AmenOración in (Spanish) At BISHOP’s discretion – it need not be a translation of the English prayer
Pronouncement by BISHOP
For as much as Juan Antonio and Mavel have consented together in holy wedlock, and have witnessed the same before God and these witnesses, and thereto have pledged their faithfulness each to the other, and have pledged the same by the giving and receiving each of a ring, by the authority invested in me as____________, I pronounce that they are husband and wife together, in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Those that God has joined together, let no man put assunder.
Pronouncement in Spanish by BISHOP Standard Spanish pronouncement
Pro 19:14 House and riches [are] the inheritance of fathers: and a prudent wife [is] from the LORD.
This is dedicated to Jessica Lynn Walker and her sister Christine Evelyn Walker of Pembroke Pines - Hollywood Florida in the Ft. Lauderdale area of Broward. May their mother Renee C. Frost Walker find peace. Hi Jessica and Christine Walker I hope you find the true meaning of life. Renee named Christine and I named Jessica
