Sample Ceremony

Two words come to mind that symbolize this sacred moment. They are Journey and Commitment. This moment we share in is a celebration of a mutual commitment to a journey of togetherness. John and Michelle have been on a journey in their relationship. This wedding, however, is not the end of the trip but a junction at which their relationship will take a new direction. We never really know where paths may lead, but if we keep open to new opportunities, we can find some wonderful surprises. John & Michelle thank you for being here to share in this sacred moment as they celebrate their love for each other and continue their journey together.  Each of you has given something of yourself to John and Michelle to help them become the people they are.  Therefore it is fitting that you share with them in this moment as their two paths become one.  This ceremony is a celebration of their commitment to a journey that will last a lifetime.

Who gives this woman to be married to this man? Father: Her mother and I.

John/Michelle do you take Michelle/John to be your lawfully wedded wife/husband? Do you promise to love her/him, honor her/him, cherish her/him in sickness and in health and forsake all other so long as you both shall live?   “I DO”

There is an art to marriage as there is to any creative activity human beings engage in.  This art asks that we pay attention to the little things as well as the big ones that create the closeness of marriage.  Never grow too old to hold hands.  At least once each day, remember to say, “I love you.” In so much as it is possible, develop the capacity to forgive and forget and heal quarrels as they happen so that you do not go to bed angry.  Your courtship should not end with the honeymoon; so pay attention that you do not come to take each other for granted, and remember to speak words of appreciation and demonstrate your gratitude in thoughtful ways. It is important to have a mutual sense of values and common objectives so that you stand together as you work through the world and do things for each other, not as a duty or sacrifice, but in the spirit of joy.  Do not expect perfection of each other; for only God is perfect.  But do give each other room to grow and cultivate flexibility, patience, understanding, and a sense of humor in your relationship.  And a marriage is not just for two people.  Use it to form a circle of love that gathers in your families and the children who may become part of your lives. Find room for the things of the spirit and make your search for the good and beautiful a common search.  In the words of a wise counselor, make yours a relationship in which “the independence is equal, the dependence is mutual and the obligation is reciprocal.”  Remember that standing together does not mean dissolving your individual selves completely into each other, but indeed means the strengthening of your own individuality.  A good marriage evolves when two distinct souls face life’s joy and its sorrow in harmony, not necessarily in unison. This list sounds very long and very heavy, yet it is only a small part of what is required of two people who would truly accept that making a marriage last a lifetime is an artistic endeavor worthy of our very best efforts.  It is not just another relationship in our lives; it is the one that gives us courage and the support to reach out to other people in love and wholeness.

I, John/Michelle, take you, Michelle/John, to be my wife/husband. In doing so I commit my life to you. A life that encompasses all sorrows and joys, all hardships and triumphs, all the experiences of my life. My commitment is . . . made in love, kept in faith, lived in hope, and eternally made new.

John and Michelle have chosen to exchange rings as symbols of their eternal love for each other. These rings are the symbols of the vows taken here.  Circles of wholeness; perfect in form. These rings mark the beginning of a long journey together filled with wonder, surprises, laughter, tears, celebration, a little bit of grief, and a lot of joy.  May these rings glow in the reflection of the warmth of the lives, which flow through the wearers today.

I give you this ring as a sign of my love knowing that love is precious and fragile, yet strong. I give you this ring as I give you my love.

John and Michelle, you have now affirmed before you families and friends your love and devotion for each other.  You have come from different backgrounds.  You have walked different paths.  You are different individuals.  Yet, your love has transcended these differences.  In the years before you may the richness of the traditions that have nurtured you enhance and brighten your lives as you help to create and shape your family’s future. May the challenges of your life together be met with courage and optimism.  May you learn from your failures and grow in your achievements.  May life together bring you happiness, as friends and family become a wide network of mutual support and enjoyment. May you face life’s pains, toils and troubles with a stout but light heart.  May you share with others the radiance of your seasons of joy and pleasure.  May you always remember that laughter is the medicine of the soul. May the spirit of love ever be a part of you lives so that the union we celebrate here today will be worthy of continued celebration today, tomorrow and forever.

You May Kiss Your Bride

It is my privilege to introduce to you John and Michelle Smith

Note: This is just a sample. Your ceremony will be custom designed and personalized to reflect your unique taste and personality.