Wedding Ceremony Scripts-Religious/Denominational/Spiritual

Whether you’re looking for tips on writing your own wedding ceremony script or just want some inspiration, check out these great examples below. These samples can help make your decision easier if there isn’t one particular style that truly speaks to you. This will focus on religious scripts only. Please click on the links below to jump to the one you’re interested in.

If you’re interested in secular or inclusive scripts please click HERE.

Religious / Denominational / Spiritual Wedding Ceremony Scripts

Christian (Non-Denominational) Ceremony Script – Prepared by American Marriage Ministries (AMM)

INVOCATION
We are gathered here today in the sight of God and these witnesses to join together [Name] and [Name] in holy matrimony; which is an honorable estate, instituted of God, since the first man and the first woman walked on the earth. Therefore; it is not to be entered into unadvisedly or lightly, but reverently and soberly. Into this holy estate, these two persons present come now to be joined. Therefore, if anyone can show just cause why they may not be lawfully joined together, let them speak now or forever hold their peace.

READING
A reading from the Apostle Paul, The first letter to the Corinthians, Chapter 13, verses 4 through 7: 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. Father, as and pledge themselves to each other, help them and bless them that their love may be pure, and their vows may be true. Through Jesus Christ our Lord, Amen.

DECLARATION OF INTENT
[Name] and [Name], you have come together this day so that the Lord may seal and strengthen your love in the presence of this minister of His word and this community of family and friends and so, in the presence of this gathering, I ask you to state your intentions: Have you both come here freely and without reservation to give yourselves to each other in marriage? If so, answer by saying ‘I have.’

‘I have.’

RING EXCHANGE
[Name], please take the ring you have selected for [Name]. As you place it on [his/her] finger, repeat after me: With this ring, I thee wed.

[Name], please take the ring you have selected for [Name]. As you place it on [his/her] finger, repeat after me: With this ring, I thee wed.

PRAYER
May Jesus Christ, Our Lord and Savior, always be at the center of the new lives you are now starting to build together, that you may know the ways of true love and kindness. May the Lord bless you both all the days of your lives and fill you with His joy. Amen.

PRONOUNCEMENT
Those whom God has joined together, let no man put asunder. In so much as [Name] and [Name] have consented together in holy wedlock and have witnessed the same before God and this company, having given and pledged their faith, each to the other, and having declared same by the giving and receiving of rings, I pronounce that you are husband and wife. I ask you now to seal the promises you have made with each other this day with a kiss.

RECESSIONAL
End of the wedding ceremony.

Traditional Catholic Wedding Ceremony Script – Prepared by American Marriage Ministries (AMM)

ENTRANCE RITE

• WITH APPROPRIATE INSTRUMENTAL MUSICAL ACCOMPANIMENT, THE WEDDING PARTY PROCESSES IN A DIGNIFIED MANNER FROM THE CHURCH VESTIBULE TO THE MAIN ALTAR.

1. The mother of the groom, then the mother of the bride, are escorted from the vestibule to their seats.
2. The officiant processes from the sacristy to the front of the aisle before the altar.
3. Followed by the groom, best man and groomsmen, who line up. in order facing the center aisle, all facing the congregation. The officiant should invite the congregation to stand.
4. The bridesmaids slowly process to the front altar and line up in order on the opposite side of the groom, best man, and groomsmen.
5. Ring bearer and flower girl process to their pre-arranged places.
6. Maid/Matron of Honor processes to the altar next to the bridesmaids.
7. Bride processes to the altar, escorted by her father (or alternative escort), who, when arriving at the front, places her hand inside that of the groom.
8. The father / alternative then moves to his pre-arranged place.
9. The entire wedding party faces the altar and officiant.

SIGN OF THE CROSS & WELCOME

OFFICIANT AND CONGREGATION 

In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.  Amen.

• THE OFFICIANT WELCOMES THE GUESTS, REMINDING THEM THAT GOD IS PRESENT AND ANXIOUS TO BLESS N. AND N. AS THEY BEGIN THEIR MARRIED LIFE.

OPENING PRAYER 

OFFICIANT TO CONGREGATION 

Now, let us pray… Father, you have made the bond of marriage a holy mystery, a symbol of Christ’s love for his Church. Hear our prayers for N. and N. With faith in you and in each other, they pledge their love today. May their lives always bear witness to the reality of that love.  

We ask you this through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, forever and ever.

CONGREGATION – Amen.

The Officiant invites the congregation to be seated; Chairs or specified seating should be provided for all in the wedding party, facing the altar.

SCRIPTURE READINGS

• IT IS APPROPRIATE AND PREFERABLE THAT THE COUPLE CHOOSE READINGS FROM SACRED SCRIPTURE THAT CONVEY WHAT THEY BELIEVE GOD IS SAYING TO AND ABOUT THEM AND THEIR MARRIAGE TO EACH OTHER. THIS SHOULD BE DONE WELL BEFORE THE WEDDING DAY.
• THERE WILL BE A FIRST READING, FOLLOWED BY (IDEALLY) A SUNG RESPONSORIAL PSALM; A SECOND READING, FOLLOWED BY (IDEALLY) A SUNG ‘ALLELUIA’ VERSE; AND A GOSPEL READING.  
• IT IS PREFERRED THAT THE COUPLE, WELL BEFOREHAND, CHOOSE ‘READERS’ FOR THE FIRST AND SECOND READINGS, WHO SHOULD PROCLAIM THEM FROM THE CHURCH’S PULPIT OR LECTERN.  
• THE GOSPEL SHOULD BE PROCLAIMED BY THE OFFICIANT, ALSO FROM THE CHURCH’S PULPIT OR LECTERN.

FIRST SCRIPTURE READING

READER 

A reading from the Book of _____________________.

• THE READER READS THE CHOSEN SCRIPTURE. ONE SUGGESTION, OFTEN POPULAR AMONG BRIDAL COUPLES, IS THE “SONG OF SONGS,” SOMETIMES ALSO CALLED THE “SONG OF SOLOMON,” 2:8 -10, 14, 16A; 8:6 -7A, THOUGH THE COUPLE CAN CHOOSE ANY FIRST READING THEY’D LIKE FROM THE LINK ABOVE

READER – (After proclaiming the reading)  The Word of the Lord.

CONGREGATION – Thanks be to God.

RESPONSPORIAL PSALM

• IF SUNG, MUSICIANS WILL LEAD THE CONGREGATION IN SUNG RESPONSE AT THE END OF EACH VERSE.
• IF READ BY A CHOSEN READER, HE/ SHE WILL INVITE THE CONGREGATION TO RESPOND WITH THE DESIGNATED RESPONSE AT THE END OF EACH VERSE.

SECOND SCRIPTURE READING

READER – A reading from the Book of _____________________.

• THE READER READS THE CHOSEN SCRIPTURE. ONE POPULAR SUGGESTION IS 1 CORINTHIANS 12:31-13:8A, THOUGH THE COUPLE CAN CHOOSE ANY SECOND READING THEY’D LIKE FROM THE LINK ABOVE

READER – (After proclaiming the reading)  The Word of the Lord.

CONGREGATION – Thanks be to God.

ALLELUIA VERSE 

• THE OFFICIANT SHOULD INVITE THE CONGREGATION TO STAND; IF SUNG, MUSICIANS WILL LEAD THE CONGREGATION IN SUNG VERSE. IF READ, THE READER WILL INVITE THE CONGREGATION TO RESPOND WITH THE DESIGNATED VERSE.

GOSPEL – OFFICIANT

A reading from the Gospel according to _____________________.

• THE OFFICIANT READS THE CHOSEN SCRIPTURE. ONE POPULAR SUGGESTION IS MATTHEW 22:35-40, THOUGH THE COUPLE CAN CHOOSE ANY GOSPEL READING THEY’D LIKE

OFFICIANT – (After proclaiming the reading)  The Gospel of the Lord.

CONGREGATION – Praise to You, Lord Jesus Christ.

• THE OFFICIANT SHOULD INVITE THE CONGREGATION TO BE SEATED.

HOMILY

• THE HOMILY IS OPTIONAL. 
• IF THE OFFICIANT DESIRES AND IS QUALIFIED, HE / SHE MAY PREACH A BRIEF HOMILY ELUCIDATING GOD’S WORD IN THE DAY’S CHOSEN SCRIPTURE READINGS, MAKING CLEAR CONNECTIONS TO THE INSTITUTION OF MARRIAGE, THE LIVES OF THE BRIDE AND GROOM, AND GOD’S AND THE CHURCH’S PLACE THEREIN.

INTRODUCTORY ADDRESS & QUESTIONING BEFORE CONSENT

• THE OFFICIANT SHOULD INVITE THE WEDDING PARTY TO STAND AND RESUME THEIR PLACES BEFORE THE ALTAR, WITH THE BRIDE AND GROOM IN THE CENTER FACING THE OFFICIANT, WHO FACES THE CONGREGATION.

OFFICIANT

My dear friends, you have come together in this church so that the Lord may seal and strengthen your love in the presence of the Church’s minister, and this community. Christ abundantly blesses this love. He has already consecrated you in baptism and now he enriches and strengthens you so that you may assume the duties of marriage in mutual and lasting fidelity.

And so, in the presence of the Church, I ask you to state your intentions.

STATEMENT OF INTENTIONS

OFFICIANT – N. and N., have you come here freely and without reservation to give yourselves to each other in marriage?

BRIDE AND GROOM – (Answering individually) I do.

OFFICIANT – Will you love and honor each other as man and wife for the rest of your lives?

BRIDE AND GROOM – (Answering individually) I will.

• THE FOLLOWING QUESTION MAY BE OMITTED IF, FOR EXAMPLE, THE COUPLE IS ADVANCED IN YEARS.

OFFICIANT – Will you accept children lovingly from God, and bring them up according to the law of Christ and his Church?

BRIDE AND GROOM – (Answering individually) I will.

OFFICIANT – Since it is your intention to enter into marriage, join your right hands, and declare your consent before God and his Church.

• THE OFFICIANT WILL LEAD THE GROOM, AND THEN THE BRIDE, IN DECLARING THEIR CONSENT.  THE OFFICIANT SHOULD LEAD THEM WITH A FEW WORDS AT A TIME, ALLOWING THEM TO REPEAT AFTER HER/ HIM.

GROOM TO THE BRIDE – I, N., take you, N., 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.

BRIDE TO THE GROOM – I, N., take you, N., 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.

RECEPTION OF THE CONSENT

• OFFICIANT PLACES HIS HAND OVER THEIR JOINED HANDS TO SYMBOLICALLY SEAL THEIR CONSENT.

OFFICIANT – You have declared your consent before the Church. May the Lord in his goodness strengthen your consent and fill you both with his blessings. What God has joined, we must not divide. Amen.

BLESSING AND EXCHANGE OF RINGS / PRONOUNCEMENT

• THE OFFICIANT WILL RECEIVE THE RINGS IN THE PALM OF HIS HANDS, TYPICALLY FROM THE BEST MAN. CARE SHOULD BE TAKEN BEFOREHAND TO ENSURE CAREFUL TRANSMISSION OF THE RINGS FROM THE RING BEARER TO THE BEST MAN TO OFFICIANT.

OFFICIANT – May the Lord bless these rings which you give to each other as the sign of your love and fidelity. Amen.

• THE OFFICIANT GIVES THE BRIDE’S RING TO THE GROOM TO PLACE ON HER RING FINGER, LEADING HIM IN THE WORDS OF EXCHANGE.

GROOM TO BRIDE – N., 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.

• THE OFFICIANT GIVES THE GROOM’S RING TO THE BRIDE TO PLACE ON HIS RING FINGER, LEADING HER IN THE WORDS OF EXCHANGE.

BRIDE TO GROOM – N., 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.

OFFICIANT TO THE COUPLE – On behalf of God and his Church, I now pronounce you husband and wife.  

OFFICIANT TO THE GROOM – You may kiss the bride.

• OPTIONAL:  THIS MAY BE AN APPROPRIATE TIME FOR A MUSICAL INTERLUDE, EITHER SUNG OR INSTRUMENTAL. THE BRIDAL COUPLE MAY BE INVITED TO SIT.

GENERAL INTERCESSIONS

It is preferred that a reader be chosen beforehand to proclaim the intercessions, from the pulpit or lectern.

• THE OFFICIANT INVITES ALL TO STAND.

OFFICIANT – Now that we have heard God’s word in the Bible and felt his presence in this exchange of vows, let us present to God the Father these petitions for people in the world today. At the end of each petition, please respond “Lord, hear our prayer.”

READER – For church leaders everywhere, that they may lead us to a deeper faith in God and a stronger love for others, let us pray to the Lord.

CONGREGATION – Lord, hear our prayer.

READER – For all leaders of government, that they may be effective in achieving peace and eliminating poverty, let us pray to the Lord.

CONGREGATION – Lord, hear our prayer.

READER – For married persons, that they may continue to give, be able to forgive and find happiness deepen with the passing of each day, let us pray to the Lord.

CONGREGATION – Lord, hear our prayer.

READER – For N. and N., now beginning their life together, that they may have divine assistance at every moment, the constant support of friends, (the rich blessing of children), a warm love reaching out to others, and good health until a ripe old age, let us pray to the Lord.

CONGREGATION – Lord, hear our prayer.

READER – For those who are sick, lonely, discouraged or oppressed, that they may be strengthened by God’s help and aided by us, let us pray to the Lord.

CONGREGATION – Lord, hear our prayer.

READER – For those who have died, especially the relatives and friends of N. and N., and of all present for this wedding, let us pray to the Lord.

CONGREGATION – Lord, hear our prayer.

OFFICIANT – God our Father, your Son taught us to ask, to seek and to knock. We have just done so, confident that you will look on our needs and faith, and grant these requests, through Jesus Christ our Lord.

CONGREGATION – Amen.

THE LORD’S PRAYER

OFFICIANT – Now, together, let us pray the Lord’s prayer.

OFFICIANT AND CONGREGATION 

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. Amen.

NUPTIAL BLESSING

OFFICIANT

My friends, let us turn to the Lord and pray that he will bless with his grace this woman, N., now married in Christ to this man, N., and unite in love the couple he has joined in this holy bond.

• THE OFFICIANT SHOULD INVITE THE COUPLE TO KNEEL BEFORE HIM ON A KNEELER OR KNEELING PILLOWS, PREPARED BEFOREHAND, AND EXTEND HIS HANDS OVER THEM IN PRAYER.

OFFICIANT

Father, by your power you have made everything out of nothing. In the beginning you created the universe and made mankind in your own likeness. You have man the constant help of woman, so that man and woman should no longer be two, but one flesh, and you teach us that what you have united may never be divided.

Father, you have made the union of man and wife so holy a mystery that it symbolizes the marriage of Christ and his Church.  By your plan man and woman are united, and married life has been established as the one blessing that was not forfeited by original sin or washed away in the flood.

Look with love upon this woman, your daughter, now joined to her husband in marriage. She asks your blessing. Give her the grace of love and peace. May she always follow the example of the holy women whose praises are sung in the scriptures. May her husband put his trust in her and recognize that she is his equal and the heir with him to the life of grace. May he always honor her and love her as Christ loves his bride, the Church.

Father, keep them always true to your commandments. Keep them faithful in marriage and let them be living examples of Christian life. Give them the strength which comes from the gospel so that they may be witnesses of Christ to others. (Optional: Bless them with children and help them to be good parents.  May the live to see their children’s children). And, after a happy old age, grant them fullness of life with the saints in the kingdom of heaven. We ask this through Christ our Lord.

CONGREGATION – Amen.

INTRODUCTION OF COUPLE

OFFICIANT

And it is now my pleasure to introduce to you for the first time, Mr. and Mrs. N. 

• THE OFFICIANT SHOULD INVITE THE COUPLE TO MOMENTARILY TURN AND FACE THE CONGREGATION TOGETHER, THEN AFTER THE APPLAUSE, FACE THE ALTAR.

CLOSING PRAYER AND BLESSING

OFFICIANT – Now let us pray… Lord, in your love you unite us with one another and with you. Now make N. and N. one in love for each other, always and forever, through Christ our Lord.

CONGREGATION – Amen.

OFFICIANT – And may Almighty God bless us, (making the Sign of the Cross) the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit.

CONGREGATION – Amen.

RECESSIONAL

• TO THE ACCOMPANIMENT OF APPROPRIATE MUSIC, THE BRIDE AND GROOM TURN AND PROCESS TO THE REAR OF THE CHURCH, FOLLOWED BY THE GROOMSMEN AND BRIDESMAIDS, EACH PROCESSING ARM IN ARM AS A COUPLE, THEN THE BEST MAN AND MAID/MATRON OF HONOR, AND FINALLY THE OFFICIANT.
• CEREMONY ENDS.

Modern Catholic Wedding Ceremony Script – Prepared by American Marriage Ministries (AMM)

RING WARMING PRAYER

• OPTIONAL: IF SO DESIRED, PRIOR TO THE BEGINNING OF THE CEREMONY AND WITH MUSICAL ACCOMPANIMENT, THE COUPLE’S RINGS, ATTACHED TO A SMALL PILLOW OR SUITABLE ALTERNATIVE, ARE PASSED FROM ONE GUEST TO ANOTHER THROUGHOUT THE CHURCH/ ALTERNATE GATHERING SITE.
• AS EACH GUEST RECEIVES IT, THEY HOLD IT WHILE QUIETLY PRAYING FOR GOD’S BLESSING OF THE COUPLE AND THEIR MARRIAGE. A PREDETERMINED FRIEND OR FAMILY MEMBER WILL SUPERVISE, ROW BY ROW, AS THE RINGS MAKE THEIR WAY THROUGH THE CONGREGATION.
• THE OFFICIANT SHOULD MAKE THE GUESTS AWARE OF WHAT THEY ARE ABOUT TO DO BEFOREHAND, AND ITS PRAYERFUL NATURE.

ENTRANCE RITE

• WITH APPROPRIATE INSTRUMENTAL MUSICAL ACCOMPANIMENT, THE WEDDING PARTY PROCESSES IN A DIGNIFIED MANNER FROM THE CHURCH VESTIBULE TO THE ALTAR/ALTERNATE CENTER FRONT. RECOGNIZING THE IMPORTANCE ALL PARENTS HAVE PLAYED IN GETTING THE BRIDE AND GROOM TO THIS DAY, AN ALTERNATIVE PROCESSION WILL INVOLVE ALL OF THEM AS WELL.

1. THE OFFICIANT PROCESSES (FROM THE VESTIBULE/ REAR) TO THE ALTAR/ FRONT.
2. THE BRIDAL PARTY PROCESSES (FROM THE VESTIBULE/ REAR) TO THE ALTAR/ FRONT, ONE COUPLE AT A TIME, ARM IN ARM, TO THE ALTAR/ALTERNATE FRONT, LINING UP SIDE BY SIDE (BRIDESMAIDS AND MAID/MATRON OF HONOR ON ONE SIDE, GROOMSMEN AND BEST MAN ON THE OTHER) IN FRONT OF THE ALTAR/FRONT, FACING THE GUESTS.
3. RING BEARER AND FLOWER GIRL PROCESS (FROM THE VESTIBULE) TO THEIR PRE-ARRANGED PLACES.
4. GROOM PROCESSES (FROM THE VESTIBULE/REAR) TO THE ALTAR/ALTERNATE FRONT CENTER, ESCORTED BY BOTH PARENTS (OR OTHER SUITABLE ESCORTS AS APPROPRIATE), FACING THE GUESTS.
5. BRIDE PROCESSES (FROM THE VESTIBULE/REAR) TO THE ALTAR/ALTERNATE FRONT CENTER, ESCORTED BY BOTH PARENTS (OR OTHER SUITABLE ESCORTS AS APPROPRIATE), FACING THE GUESTS.
6. THE PARENTS (OTHER SUITABLE ESCORTS) MOVE TO THEIR SEATS AS THEY REACH THE FRONT.
7. THE OFFICIANT STANDS BEFORE THE BRIDAL PARTY, MOMENTARILY FACING THE GUESTS.

SIGN OF THE CROSS & WELCOME

OFFICIANT AND THE GUESTS

In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.

• THE OFFICIANT WELCOMES THE GUESTS, REMINDING THEM THAT GOD IS PRESENT AND ANXIOUS TO BLESS (PARTNER A) AND (PARTNER B) AS THEY BEGIN THEIR MARRIED LIFE.

OFFICIANT TO GUESTS – So here we are. You made it. Tux’s and gowns, dinners, music, guests, hotel, honeymoon trip… everything’s done and ready. And so, for the next half-hour, let’s focus, all of us, on here…now…Jesus.  

• ALLOW FOR A MOMENT OF QUIET PRAYER.

RENEWAL OF BAPTISM 

• THE OFFICIANT SOLICITS THE DATES OF THE BRIDE’S AND GROOM’S BAPTISMS BEFOREHAND. IF A BAPTISM FONT IS AVAILABLE NEAR THE ALTAR, IT SHOULD BE FILLED WITH WARM WATER BEFOREHAND. IF NOT AVAILABLE IN AN ALTERNATE SETTING, A DIGNIFIED LARGE GLASS/CRYSTAL BOWL SHOULD BE PREPARED IN A PLACE PROMINENCE NEAR THE CENTER.

OFFICIANT TO GUESTS AND THE COUPLE

As we begin, I want to take all of us, each of you (looking at the couple), back to two important days. One was [give date of first baptism], the day (Partner A) was baptized. The other was [give date of second baptism], the day (Partner B) was baptized.  

(Partner A’s Parents’ Names) brought a tiny girl named (Partner A) to church, because they wanted her to be part of the church, part of something bigger. They wanted her to know Jesus Christ. They wanted her to be eternal.

(Partner B’s Parents’ Names) brought their baby boy, (Partner B) to a church because they wanted the same thing for him, to begin a lifelong, and thereafter, walk with Jesus.

You, (Partner A and Partner B) are only here because they brought you there first. So, (Partner A and Partner B), as a reminder of those two all-important days, I will now bless you with water from this baptismal font, just as a priest (minister/ other as appropriate for each) once poured it over you on the day when Jesus Christ first said, “You’re mine, and from now on, I’m yours.”

• THE OFFICIANT, USING HIS CUPPED HAND, POURS WATER FROM THE BAPTISM FONT/BOWL ONTO THE FOREHEADS OF THE BRIDE AND THE GROOM.

OPENING PRAYER 

OFFICIANT

Now let us pray… (Partner A) and (Partner B), the Church shares your joy and warmly welcomes you, together with your families and friends, as today, in the presence of God, you establish between yourselves a lifelong partnership. May the Lord hear you. May he send you help and protect you. May he grant your hearts’ desires, and fulfill every one of your prayers, through Christ our Lord.

GUESTS – Amen.

• THE OFFICIANT INVITES THE GUESTS TO BE SEATED; CHAIRS OR SPECIFIED SEATING SHOULD BE PROVIDED FOR ALL IN THE WEDDING PARTY, WITH CHAIRS IN PLACE IN THE SANCTUARY/FRONT, FACING THE GUESTS, FOR THE BRIDE AND GROOM ON ONE SIDE, AND THE BEST MAN AND MAID/MATRON OF HONOR ON THE OTHER.

SCRIPTURE READINGS

• IT IS APPROPRIATE AND PREFERABLE THAT THE COUPLE, BEFOREHAND, CHOOSE READINGS FROM SACRED SCRIPTURE THAT CONVEY WHAT THEY BELIEVE GOD IS SAYING TO AND ABOUT THEM AND THEIR MARRIAGE.
• THERE SHOULD BE A FIRST READING, FOLLOWED BY (IDEALLY) A SUNG RESPONSORIAL PSALM; A SECOND READING, FOLLOWED BY (IDEALLY) A SUNG ‘ALLELUIA’ VERSE; AND A GOSPEL READING.  
• IT IS PREFERRED THAT THE COUPLE, BEFOREHAND, CHOOSE ‘READERS’ FOR THE FIRST AND SECOND READINGS, WHO SHOULD PROCLAIM THEM FROM THE CHURCH’S PULPIT OR LECTERN, OR FROM A PLACE OF PROMINENCE IN AN ALTERNATIVE SETTING. THE GOSPEL SHOULD BE PROCLAIMED BY THE OFFICIANT, ALSO FROM THE CHURCH’S PULPIT OR LECTERN, OR FROM A PLACE OF PROMINENCE IN AN ALTERNATIVE SETTING.

FIRST SCRIPTURE READING

READER – A reading from the Book of _____________________.

• THE READER READS THE CHOSEN SCRIPTURE. ONE SUGGESTION, OFTEN POPULAR AMONG BRIDAL COUPLES, IS THE “SONG OF SONGS,” SOMETIMES ALSO CALLED THE “SONG OF SOLOMON,” 2:8 -10, 14, 16A; 8:6 -7A, THOUGH THE COUPLE CAN CHOOSE ANY FIRST READING THEY’D LIKE FROM THE LINK ABOVE

READER – (After proclaiming the reading)  The Word of the Lord.

GUESTS – Thanks be to God.

RESPONSPORIAL PSALM

• IF SUNG, MUSICIANS WILL LEAD THE GUESTS IN SUNG RESPONSE AT THE END OF EACH VERSE. IF READ BY A CHOSEN READER, THEY WILL INVITE THE GUESTS TO RESPOND WITH THE DESIGNATED RESPONSE AT THE END OF EACH VERSE.

SECOND SCRIPTURE READING

READER – A reading from the Book of _____________________.

• THE READER READS THE CHOSEN SCRIPTURE. ONE POPULAR SUGGESTION IS 1 CORINTHIANS 12:31-13:8A, THOUGH THE COUPLE CAN CHOOSE ANY SECOND READING THEY’D LIKE FROM THE LINK ABOVE

READER – (After proclaiming the reading)  The Word of the Lord.

GUESTS – Thanks be to God.

ALLELUIA VERSE 

• THE OFFICIANT SHOULD INVITE THE GUESTS TO STAND; IF SUNG, MUSICIANS WILL LEAD THE GUESTS IN SUNG VERSE. IF READ, THE READER WILL INVITE THE GUESTS TO RESPOND WITH THE DESIGNATED VERSE.

GOSPEL

OFFICIANT – A reading from the Gospel according to _____________________.

• THE OFFICIANT READS THE CHOSEN SCRIPTURE. ONE POPULAR SUGGESTION IS MATTHEW 22:35-40, THOUGH THE COUPLE CAN CHOOSE ANY GOSPEL READING THEY’D LIKE

OFFICIANT

(After proclaiming the reading)  The Gospel of the Lord.

GUESTS

Praise to You, Lord Jesus Christ.

• THE OFFICIANT SHOULD INVITE THE GUESTS TO BE SEATED.

HOMILY

• OPTIONAL: IF THE OFFICIANT DESIRES AND IS QUALIFIED, THEY MAY PREACH A BRIEF HOMILY ELUCIDATING GOD’S WORD IN THE DAY’S CHOSEN SCRIPTURE READINGS, MAKING CLEAR CONNECTIONS TO THE INSTITUTION OF MARRIAGE, THE LIVES OF THE BRIDE AND GROOM, AND GOD’S AND THE CHURCH’S PLACE THEREIN.

INTRODUCTORY ADDRESS AND QUESTIONING BEFORE CONSENT 

• THE OFFICIANT SHOULD INVITE THE WEDDING PARTY TO STAND AND RESUME THEIR PLACES FACING THE OFFICIANT/GUESTS BEFORE THE ALTAR/ALTERNATE FRONT CENTER, THE BRIDE AND GROOM IN THE CENTER, FLANKED BY THE BEST MAN/MAID-MATRON OF HONOR, AND THE BRIDESMAIDS/GROOMSMEN ON EITHER SIDE.

OFFICIANT TO THE COUPLE 

(Partner A) and (Partner B), you have come together so that in the presence of myself and this community, your intention to enter into Marriage may be strengthened by the Lord with a sacred seal. Christ abundantly blesses the love that binds you. He enriches and strengthens those he has already consecrated by Baptism, that they may be faithful to each other forever, and assume all the responsibilities of married life. And so, in the presence of myself and your guests, I ask you to state your intentions.

STATEMENT OF INTENTIONS

OFFICIANT TO THE COUPLE – (Partner A) and (Partner B), have you come here to enter into Marriage without coercion, freely and wholeheartedly?

PARTNER A AND PARTNER B – (Answering individually) I have.

OFFICIANT TO THE COUPLE – Are you prepared, as you follow the path of your Marriage, to love and honor each other for as long as you both shall live?

PARTNER A AND PARTNER B – (Answering individually) I am.

• THE FOLLOWING QUESTION MAY BE OMITTED IF, FOR EXAMPLE, THE COUPLE IS ADVANCED IN YEARS.

OFFICIANT TO THE COUPLE – Are you prepared to accept children lovingly from God and to bring them up in the love of Jesus Christ?

PARTNER A AND PARTNER B – (Answering individually) I am.

OFFICIANT TO GUESTS

• OPTIONAL: THIS COMMUNITY VOW, SPOKEN TO THE GUESTS, IS OPTIONAL.

Do you promise to support this couple, encourage their marriage and witness their lives together?

GUESTS – We do! 

OFFICIANT TO THE COUPLE – Since it is your intention to enter the covenant of marriage, turn to each other, join your right hands and declare your consent before God and his assembled Church.

• THE OFFICIANT WILL LEAD THE GROOM, AND THEN THE BRIDE, IN DECLARING THEIR CONSENT. THE OFFICIANT SHOULD LEAD THEM WITH A FEW WORDS AT A TIME, ALLOWING THEM TO REPEAT EACH LINE.

PARTNER A TO PARTNER B

I, (Partner A), take you, (Partner B), to be my husband/ spouse. I promise to be true to you in good times and in bad, in sickness and in health, to love you and to honor you, all the days of my life.

PARTNER B TO PARTNER A

I, (Partner B), take you, (Partner A), to be my wife/ spouse. I promise to be true to you in good times and in bad, in sickness and in health, to love you and to honor you, all the days of my life.

RECEPTION OF THE CONSENT

• OFFICIANT PLACES HIS HAND OVER THEIR JOINED HANDS TO SYMBOLICALLY SEAL THEIR CONSENT.

OFFICIANT – May the Lord in his kindness strengthen the consent you have declared before us and bless you every day of your life together. What God has joined, no one should divide. Amen.

BLESSING AND EXCHANGE OF RINGS & PRONOUNCEMENT

• THE OFFICIANT WILL RECEIVE THE RINGS IN THE PALM OF HIS HANDS, TYPICALLY FROM THE BEST MAN. CARE SHOULD BE TAKEN BEFOREHAND TO ENSURE CAREFUL TRANSMISSION OF THE RINGS FROM THE RING BEARER TO THE BEST MAN TO OFFICIANT.

OFFICIANT TO THE COUPLE – May the Lord bless these rings which you give to each other as the sign of your love and faithfulness. Amen.

• THE OFFICIANT GIVES THE GROOM’S RING TO THE BRIDE TO PLACE ON HIS RING FINGER, LEADING HER IN THE WORDS OF EXCHANGE.

PARTNER A TO PARTNER B

(Partner B), take this ring as a sign of my love and faithfulness. In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.

• THE OFFICIANT GIVES THE BRIDE’S RING TO THE GROOM TO PLACE ON HER RING FINGER, LEADING HIM IN THE WORDS OF EXCHANGE.

PARTNER B TO PARTNER A

(Partner A), take this ring as a sign of my love and faithfulness. In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.

OFFICIANT

On behalf of God and his Church, I now pronounce you married.  

You may kiss your spouse.

• OPTIONAL: THIS MAY BE AN APPROPRIATE TIME FOR A MUSICAL INTERLUDE, EITHER SUNG OR INSTRUMENTAL.  THE BRIDAL COUPLE MAY BE INVITED TO SIT.

GENERAL INTERCESSIONS

• IT IS PREFERRED THAT A READER BE CHOSEN BEFOREHAND TO PROCLAIM THE INTERCESSIONS, FROM THE PULPIT/LECTERN OR A PLACE OF PROMINENCE IN AN ALTERNATIVE SETTING. THE OFFICIANT INVITES ALL TO STAND.

OFFICIANT TO GUESTS AND THE COUPLE – We’ve listened to God’s word. Now, we ask God to listen to us as we pray, together, for those who need our prayer…At the end of each petition, please respond together, “Lord, hear our prayer.”

READER – For the church everywhere, that it will be a vibrant witness to God being with us, always and everywhere, let us pray to the Lord.

GUESTS – Lord, hear our prayer.

READER – For peace and unity in our country, and among countries, let us pray to the Lord.

GUESTS – Lord, hear our prayer.

READER – For people who are lonely, that they will find what’s missing, let us pray to the Lord.

GUESTS – Lord, hear our prayer.

READER – For (Partner A) and (Partner B), that they will have God’s help at every moment of their marriage, the constant support of family and friends, (the rich blessing of children), and good health, let us pray to the Lord.

GUESTS – Lord, hear our prayer.

READER – For the deceased loved ones in (Partner A’s) and (Partner B’s) hearts, [Recite these names now — names of favored deceased should be prepared beforehand], all of whom would have wanted to be here today… may they rest forever in God’s hands, let us pray to the Lord.

GUESTS – Lord, hear our prayer.

OFFICIANT – Almighty God, we lean on You, we depend on You, we trust You. We ask all of this, through Christ, our Lord.

GUESTS – Amen.

UNITY CANDLE LIGHTING 

• OPTIONAL: IF THE COUPLE DESIRES, A LARGE CANDLE SHOULD BE PREPARED BEFOREHAND AT A PLACE OF PROMINENCE IN THE SANCTUARY/ALTERNATE FRONT. LIGHTED TAPERS MAY BE RECEIVED BY THE COUPLE FROM THE PARENTS IF DESIRED, THEN THE NEWLY-MARRIED COUPLE SIMULTANEOUSLY LIGHT THE UNITY CANDLE, THEN TAKE THEIR SEATS.
• IT IS PREFERABLE THAT APPROPRIATE INSTRUMENTAL/OTHER MUSIC BE PLAYED/SUNG THROUGHOUT.
• ALTERNATIVELY, GUESTS MAY BE INVITED TO TAKE PART BY HANDING OUT CANDLES AND HAVING GUESTS PASS THE FLAME FROM ONE TO ANOTHER UNTIL EVERYONE IS HOLDING A LIT CANDLE. THE FINAL GUEST WOULD THEN TRANSFER THE FLAME TO THE COUPLE, OR TO THE PARENTS TO TRANSFER TO THE COUPLE, TO LIGHT THEIR UNITY CANDLE.

THE LORD’S PRAYER

OFFICIANT TO GUESTS AND THE COUPLE – Now, together, let us pray the Lord’s prayer.

OFFICIANT AND GUESTS, COUPLE

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. Amen.

NUPTIAL BLESSING

• THE OFFICIANT SHOULD INVITE THE NEWLY-MARRIED COUPLE TO BOW THEIR HEADS).

OFFICIANT

Psalm 43 says, “Let the morning bring me word of your unfailing love, for I have put my trust in you.  Show me the way I should go, for to you I entrust my life. “We pray the nuptial blessing together now, praying that (Partner A) and (Partner B) will put the same trust they have in each other, in the God who gave them to each other, and entrust their life together, beginning today, to Him.

• THE OFFICIANT THEN INVITES THE GUESTS TO EXTEND THEIR HANDS TOWARDS THE NEWLY-MARRIED COUPLE, AND THE BEST MAN/MAID-MATRON OF HONOR TO PLACE A HAND ON THE BRIDE’S/GROOM’S SHOULDER, AS THE OFFICIANT EXTENDS HER/HIS HANDS DIRECTLY OVER THE COUPLE.

OFFICIANT

Lord, you created us in your own image, and made us to be joined to each other, a union of bodies and hearts. You made the union of a married couple an image of your eternal covenant with us. Stretch out your hands now and bless (Partner A) and (Partner B).

Grant that as they begin their marriage, they will become one in heart and mind, as witnesses to your presence in their marriage. Help them to create a home together (and give them children to be formed by the gospel).

Give your blessing to (Partner A), your daughter, so that she may be a good wife (and mother), generous and kind, faithful in love for her husband. Give your blessing to (Partner B), your son, so that he may be a good husband (and father), generous and kind, faithful in love for his wife.

We all ask this through Christ our Lord.

GUESTS – Amen.

INTRODUCTION OF COUPLE

OFFICIANT TO GUESTS

And it is now my pleasure to introduce to you for the first time, Mr. and Mrs. (Married name of Couple – Appellation as preferred by couple).

• GUESTS APPLAUD.

CLOSING PRAYER & BLESSING OF THE GUESTS

OFFICIANT – Now let us pray…Lord, in your love you unite us with one another and with you. Make (Partner A) and (Partner B) one in love for each other, always and forever, through Christ our Lord.

GUESTS – Amen.

OFFICIANT TO GUESTS AND THE COUPLE – And may Almighty God bless all of us, (making the Sign of the Cross) the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit.

GUESTS – Amen.

RECESSIONAL

• TO THE ACCOMPANIMENT OF APPROPRIATE MUSIC, THE NEWLYWEDS TURN AND PROCESS TO THE REAR OF THE CHURCH/ALTERNATE SETTING, FOLLOWED BY THE GROOMSMEN AND BRIDESMAIDS, EACH PROCESSING ARM IN ARM AS A COUPLE, THEN THE BEST MAN AND MAID/MATRON OF HONOR, AND FINALLY THE OFFICIANT.

Protestant Wedding Ceremony Script – Prepared by American Marriage Ministries (AMM)

THE PROCESSION

Ceremony begins, prelude, wedding party enters and walks down the aisle.

Processional order (optional) : 

– The officiant, groom, and best man stand next to the wedding altar (at front)

– Groomsmen (may accompany bridesmaids)

– Bridesmaids 

– Ring bearer and flower girl (or flower boy, flower children)

– Honor attendant/s (maid or matron of honor)

– Bride with her escort (may be accompanied by father, who will stand next to her to present her during the Presentation)

THE INVOCATION

OFFICIANT TO THE CONGREGATION 

Dearly beloved, we’re gathered here today in the presence of God to witness and bless this union as (Partner One) and (Partner Two) join together in Holy Matrimony. 

The sacred covenant of marriage was established by God to join together a man and woman in love and prosperity, so they might weather the ups and downs of life with a constant friend, and build a family that’s made strong and joyful in faith. 

This holy bond is not to be entered into unadvisedly or lightly, but reverently, deliberately, thoughtfully, and in accordance with those purposes for which God created it. 

INTERROGATION & CHARGE TO COUPLE

OFFICIANT TO THE CONGREGATION 

(Partner One) and (Partner Two) met while volunteering during a breakfast event at Hope Church two years ago. Their faith, love of family, and shared fondness for pancakes with whip cream and strawberries made them instant best friends.

Over the past two years they’ve traveled together, laughed together, and learned what it means to be partners, growing closer every step of the way.

CUSTOMIZE THE ABOVE SECTION WITH DETAILS FROM THE COUPLE’S RELATIONSHIP AND UNIQUE LOVE STORY.

Now they stand before us, ready to take the biggest step of all – into marriage. 

If anyone present knows of any reason why this couple should not be joined in holy matrimony, speak now or forever hold your peace.

PAUSE HERE

OFFICIANT TO THE COUPLE

(Partner One) and (Partner Two), here in the presence of God and friends, if either of you know any reason why you should not marry, do now confess it.

PAUSE HERE

PRESENTATION (GIVING AWAY THE BRIDE)

OFFICIANT TO THE CONGREGATION

Who presents this woman to be married to this man?

FATHER/ ELDER TO THE OFFICIANT AND THE CONGREGATION 

Her mother and I do. 

THE BRIDE’S FATHER OR ESCORT MAY CHOOSE TO PRESENT THE BRIDE TO THE GROOM BY PLACING HER HAND IN HIS.

THE DECLARATION OF INTENT & VOW EXCHANGE

OFFICIANT TO COUPLE

Please face each other and join hands. 

IF THEY ARE ALREADY HOLDING HANDS, SIMPLY ASK THEM TO FACE EACH OTHER.

OFFICIANT TO PARTNER ONE

(Partner One), if it’s in your heart, please repeat after me. 

In the name of God, 

I, (Partner One), take you, (Partner Two), 

to be my (wife/ husband/ spouse), 

to have and to hold from this day forward,

for better for worse, 

for richer or poorer, 

in sickness and in health, 

to love and to cherish, 

until we are parted by death.

This is my solemn vow.

PARTNER ONE REPEATS EACH LINE AS THE OFFICIANT RECITES IT. 

OFFICIANT TO PARTNER TWO 

(Partner Two), if it’s in your heart, please repeat after me. 

In the name of God, 

I, (Partner Two), take you, (Partner One), 

to be my (wife/ husband/ spouse), 

to have and to hold from this day forward,

for better for worse, 

for richer or poorer, 

in sickness and in health, 

to love and to cherish, 

until we are parted by death.

This is my solemn vow.

PARTNER TWO REPEATS EACH LINE AS THE OFFICIANT RECITES IT. 

THE RINGS EXCHANGE

OFFICIANT TO THE COUPLE

You will now exchange rings as a symbol of these vows. As you look upon these tokens of your commitment, remember the promises you’ve made, and never despair, for life’s challenges and joys are all part of His great plan. 

Lord, bless these rings as you would bless this union, in your light and infinite wisdom, today, tomorrow, and always. Amen.  

THE COUPLE AND THE CONGREGATION MAY WISH TO ANSWER, AMEN.

PARTNER ONE PLACES A RING ON PARTNER TWO’S HAND AND SAYS THE FOLLOWING.

PARTNER ONE TO PARTNER TWO

I give you this ring as a symbol of my love and devotion. With all that I am, and all that I have, I promise to honor and cherish you, in God’s name. 

PARTNER TWO PLACES A RING ON PARTNER ONE’S HAND AND SAYS THE FOLLOWING.

PARTNER TWO TO PARTNER ONE

I give you this ring as a symbol of my love and devotion. With all that I am, and all that I have, I promise to honor and cherish you, in God’s name. 

You may wish to add an additional reading or selection of Bible verses here:

THE PRONOUNCEMENT

OFFICIANT TO THE COUPLE 

(Partner One) and (Partner Two), remember to love each other faithfully, just as Christ loved the church, for marriage is a lasting promise of kindness, patience, forgiveness, and love. Trust in God with all your heart, and your path forward will be filled with joy and light for all the years to come. 

By the power vested in me by American Marriage Ministries and the beautiful state of (Name of State), in the presence of God and the witness of friends and family, it is my great privilege to pronounce you husband and wife! (or “I now pronounce you married!”)

You may kiss! 

THE OFFICIANT MAY WISH TO INTRODUCE THE NEW COUPLE TO THE CONGREGATION, FOR EXAMPLE, “IT IS MY HONOR TO PRESENT TO YOU, MR. AND MRS. MICHAEL SMITH.”

THE RECESSION

Baptist Wedding Script – Prepared by American Marriage Ministries (AMM)

PROCESSIONAL

• GUESTS ARE SEATED. GRANDPARENTS AND MOTHERS / PARENTS ENTER FIRST AND ARE SEATED UP FRONT TO HONOR THEIR PRESENCE. NEXT, THE PASTOR OR MINISTER (WHO WE HAVE DESIGNATED AS ‘OFFICIANT’) ENTERS AND STANDS WAITING AT THE ALTAR. 
• THE WEDDING PARTY ENTERS: GROOM AND BEST MAN, FOLLOWED BY BRIDESMAIDS AND GROOMSMEN / USHERS, MAID OF HONOR, THE FLOWER GIRL/S AND RING BEARER, AND THE BRIDE WITH HER FATHER / ESCORT.) 
• GUESTS MAY STAND WHILE THE BRIDE MAKES HER WALK DOWN THE AISLE.

INVOCATION / SERVICE OF WORSHIP

THE OFFICIANT TO THE CONGREGATION

Dearly beloved, we are gathered here in the presence of God, family, and friends to witness a joyous occasion – the union of [Bride] and [Groom] in Holy Matrimony. 

The sacred covenant of marriage is a sanctuary and a home. It must not be entered into lightly, but reverently, discreetly, soberly, and advisedly, with God’s guidance and blessing. 

We rejoice today as [Bride] and [Groom] receive one of God’s greatest gifts – a loving partner to grow with, to share life’s joys and challenges with, to build a family with, and grow old with, and to journey with in faith throughout all of their days. 

So let us pray, asking for His blessing on this marriage.

Oh, Heavenly Father, bless this couple as they give themselves to one another in this holy bond of marriage. Guide them with patience and love, lighting their path brightly as they walk together in your Spirit. Bless this union with a love that is pristine and pure, and a desire to live in faith that is strong as your own. Amen.

PRESENTATION OF THE BRIDE 

OFFICIANT TO THE CONGREGATION – Who gives this woman to be married to this man?

BRIDE’S FATHER OR PARENT – I do. 

• THE BRIDE’S FATHER WILL PRESENT THE BRIDE’S HAND TO THE GROOM AND BE SEATED. IF BOTH PARENTS WISH TO SHOW THE BRIDE THEIR SUPPORT, THEY MAY ANSWER TOGETHER, “WE DO.” THE OFFICIANT’S QUESTION CAN ALSO BE SAID IN AN UPDATED WAY, FOR EXAMPLE, “WHO SUPPORTS THIS BRIDE IN MARRIAGE?”

SCRIPTURE READING

OFFICIANT TO THE COUPLE

[Bride] and [Groom], in John 15:9-12, it’s written “As the Father has loved me, so I have loved you; abide in my love. If you keep my commandments, you will abide in my love, just as I have kept my Father’s commandments and abide in his love. I have said these things to you so that my joy may be in you, and that your joy may be complete. This is my commandment, that you love one another as I have loved you.”

This is the spirit of love you must carry in your hearts today – the promise to love one another as Jesus Christ has loved each of us, honestly and completely. 

HOMILY

• WE RECOMMEND YOU DRAFT A PERSONALIZED HOMILY OR SERMON THAT CONSIDERS THE COUPLE’S UNIQUE LOVE STORY. BEGIN WITH A MEANINGFUL BIBLE PASSAGE ON THE NATURE OF LOVE OF COMMITMENT, AND THEN EXPAND USING YOUR OWN WISDOM AND EXPERIENCES. 
• DISCUSS THE BLESSINGS OF MARRIAGE, THE IMPORTANCE OF FAITHFULNESS AND HONESTY, HOW TO ENSURE A HAPPY AND HARMONIOUS HOME LIFE, AND THE WAYS IN WHICH THEY SHOULD HONOR EACH OTHER AS HUSBAND AND WIFE. SHARE PASSAGES AND INSIGHT ON THE IMPORTANCE OF FAMILY, DEVOTION TO GOD, AND, IF THE COUPLE WISHES TO HAVE CHILDREN, ON THE WAYS IN WHICH MARRIAGE CREATES A HOME FOR GENERATIONS TO COME. 
• REFLECT ON THE COUPLE’S INDIVIDUAL AND SHARED JOURNEYS IN FAITH, AND HOW THEIR BELIEF IN GOD HAS STRENGTHENED THEIR RELATIONSHIP. INCORPORATE WHO THEY ARE AS INDIVIDUALS, ANY SERVICE THEY DO WITHIN THE CHURCH, WHO THEY HAVE BECOME IN THEIR WALK WITH JESUS, HOW FAR THEY HAVE COME TOGETHER AND THEIR GROWTH AS A COUPLE, AND ANY SPECIFIC READINGS THE COUPLE ASKS YOU TO INCLUDE. 

DECLARATION OF INTENT

OFFICIANT TO THE CONGREGATION

[Bride] and [Groom], as you stand here before friends, family, and God, I ask you to declare your intentions to join in the sacred covenant of marriage.

OFFICIANT TO THE BRIDE

[Bride], Have you come here freely and without reservation to marry?

• BRIDE ANSWERS “I HAVE.” 

Do you take [Groom] to be your husband, to love him, comfort him, honor and keep him, in sickness and in health, and forsaking all others, be faithful to him, as long as you both shall live?

• BRIDE ANSWERS “I DO.”

OFFICIANT TO THE GROOM

[Groom], Have you come here freely and without reservation to marry?

• GROOM ANSWERS “I HAVE.” 

Do you take [Bride] to be your wife, to love her, comfort her, honor and keep her, in sickness and in health, and forsaking all others, be faithful to her, as long as you both shall live?

• GROOM ANSWERS “I DO.”

EXCHANGE OF VOWS AND RINGS

• THE COUPLE MAY WISH TO WRITE THEIR OWN PERSONAL WEDDING VOWS. IF SO, THEY WILL EXCHANGE THESE NOW. 

OFFICIANT TO THE CONGREGATION

[Groom] and [Bride] will now exchange rings as a symbol of their commitment and endless devotion. 

[Groom], you may place the ring you’ve chosen on [Bride’s] hand. 

And [Bride], you may place the ring you’ve chosen on [Groom’s] hand.

• THE COUPLE EXCHANGES WEDDING RINGS.

OFFICIANT TO THE CONGREGATION

This marriage unites not just [Groom] and [Bride], but all of the families sitting here today. They ask now for your blessing. Do you promise to support [Groom] and [Bride] in their marriage, to keep them in your prayers, to hold them up with love, and to rejoice in companionship in Jesus as they walk this path together? 

• THE CONGREGATION ANSWERS, “WE DO.”

UNITY CEREMONY

• THIS IS AN APPROPRIATE TIME TO INCLUDE A UNITY CEREMONY IF THE COUPLE WISHES TO. FOR EXAMPLE, THE COUPLE MAY CHOOSE A CANDLE LIGHTING CEREMONY, SAND POURING CEREMONY, OR ANOTHER PERSONALIZED RITUAL.  

CLOSING PRAYER

THE OFFICIANT TO THE CONGREGATION

Father, bless this marriage and bestow your spirit in the hearts of the [Groom] and [Bride]. Let the divine light illuminate their path as they build a joyous life built on profound love, compassion, devotion, and your eternal wisdom. It is written in Genesis that “a man shall leave his father and his mother, and be joined to his wife, and they shall become one flesh.” And so it is today, with these two. 

Let [Bride] and [Groom] be a comfort to each other, and bless them with patience, so they may always find strength and endurance to fulfill the promises they have made here before You and us all. Amen.

• ALL PRESENT PAUSE FOR A BRIEF MOMENT OF SILENT PRAYER.

PRONOUNCEMENT OF MARRIAGE

THE OFFICIANT TO THE COUPLE

[Bride] and [Groom], having witnessed your marriage vows in the eyes of God and before all who are assembled here, by the authority invested in me by American Marriage Ministries and the State of [Name of State], I pronounce you husband and wife. 

You may kiss the bride!

• THE COUPLE KISSES OR EMBRACES.

THE OFFICIANT TO THE CONGREGATION 

Ladies and gentlemen, it is my honor to introduce you for the first time to Mr. & Mrs. [COUPLE’S MARRIED NAME]!

RECESSIONAL

• END OF THE CEREMONY

Jehovah’s Witnesses Wedding Ceremony Script – Sourced From Watchtower Online Library

At the time appointed, the persons to be married, having been qualified according to the law of the state and the standards of the Lord, should assemble together, facing the minister; the man at the minister’s left hand and the woman at his right hand. A friendly and intimate appropriate speech is given, directed primarily to the two to be married, outlining the proper Scriptural obligations each one assumes toward the other and toward their God in accepting the responsibility of wedlock. After this, the bride, the bridegroom and the two witnesses should stand together before the minister.

The minister will then say to the man, using his Christian or given name:

“Do you, ________, in the presence of Jehovah God and these witnesses, take ________ to be your wedded wife, to love and to cherish, in accordance with the divine law as outlined in the Holy Scriptures for Christian husbands, for as long as you both may live?”

The man should then answer: “I do.”

The minister will then say to the woman, using her Christian name:

“Do you, ________, in the presence of Jehovah God and these witnesses, take ________ to be your wedded husband, to love and to cherish and deeply respect, in accordance with the divine law as outlined in the Holy Scriptures for Christian wives for as long as you both may live?”

The woman should answer: “I do.”

[If arrangements are to give the woman in marriage by her father or someone else, the minister will say: “Who gives this woman to be married to this man?” The father or whoever gives her in marriage will say: “I do.” Then he will withdraw and take his seat in the audience. If no arrangements are made to give the woman in marriage, this can be dispensed with.]

The minister will then ask the man to repeat after him:

“I, ________, take you, ________, to be my wedded wife, to love and to cherish in accordance with the divine law as set forth in the Holy Scriptures for Christian husbands, for as long as we both shall live or until the divine termination of the marital arrangement.”

Then the minister will ask the woman to repeat after him:

“I, ________, take you, ________, to be my wedded husband, to love and to cherish and deeply respect, in accordance with the divine law as set forth in the Holy Scriptures for Christian wives, for as long as we both shall live or until the divine termination of the marital arrangement.”

If a ring ceremony is desired, at this point the man may place the ring on the third finger of the woman’s left hand. In case of a double ring ceremony, the woman shall place the ring on the third finger of the man’s left hand. If he desires, the minister may remark in connection with this ceremony: “This ring [or rings] is an outward and visible sign signifying unto all the uniting of this man and this woman in the bonds of matrimony.”

The minister will then say: “Forasmuch as [man’s name] and [woman’s name] have covenanted before Jehovah God and these witnesses to accept each other in wedlock, I, as an ordained minister and by the authority conferred upon me by the Holy Scriptures and the State (Province) of ________, pronounce that they are husband and wife together. What God has yoked together, let no man put apart.”

The minister will then conclude with an appropriate prayer, asking Jehovah’s blessing and direction upon the union to his glory and praise and to the eternal good of those who were married.You wives, be in subjection to your own husbands, . . . You husbands, continue dwelling in like manner with them according to knowledge, assigning them honor as to a weaker vessel, the feminine one, since you are also heirs with them of the undeserved favor of life, in order for your prayers not to be hindered.-1 Pet. 3:1, 7, NW.

Modern Jewish Wedding Ceremony Script – Prepared by American Marriage Ministries (AMM)

PROCESSIONAL

Beginning of the wedding ceremony. Guests are standing after the entrance of the bride.

OFFICIANT TO THE RECEPTION

“Before we start, I’d like everyone to join me in the very important and traditional custom of switching off your cell phones.”

INVOCATION

OFFICIANT TO THE RECEPTION

“Dearest friends, we’re standing here under the chuppah. It’s the symbol of the house that this couple before us will establish together. This structure is open on all four sides, as was the tent that Abraham opened in his infinite hospitality. And in keeping with tradition, to remember the seven days of creation, [PARTNER A] will walk around [PARTNER B], to bring down the walls and symbolize the start of a new relationship.”

• THE DESIGNATED PARTNER WALKS AROUND THE STATIONARY PARTNER SEVEN TIMES.

OFFICIANT TO THE RECEPTION

“Friends, you may now be seated. “Optional: Here, the officiant can tell stories about the couple, read a passage from the torah, or any other passages that the couple would like included.

DECLARATION OF INTENT AND VOWS

OFFICIANT TO PARTNER A

“Now, the couple will exchange vows and declare their intent to enter into the union of marriage. [PARTNER A], please repeat after me.”

• THE OFFICIANT READS EACH LINE AND ALLOWS PARTNER A TO REPEAT.

“I,  take you  to be my husband/wife/spouse.

I promise to cherish our love and our friendship today, tomorrow, and forever.

I will trust you and honor you.

I will laugh with you and cry with you.

Through the best and the worst, Through the good days and the bad.

As I have given you my hand to hold, So I give you my life to keep. “OFFICIANT TO PARTNER B

“[PARTNER B], will you repeat after me?”

• THE OFFICIANT READS EACH LINE AND ALLOWS PARTNER B TO REPEAT.

“I,  take you  to be my husband/wife/spouse.

I promise to cherish our love and our friendship today, tomorrow, and forever.

I will trust you and honor you. I will laugh with you and cry with you. Through the best and the worst, Through the good days and the bad.

As I have given you my hand to hold, So I give you my life to keep.”

RING EXCHANGE

OFFICIANT TO PARTNER A

“[PARTNER A], you have a ring that you are going to bestow to [PARTNER B], yes? Holding this ring, please repeat after me:”
“I give you this sign, Of our love. An ever-present symbol, of the vows we have made today.”

• PARTNER A REPEATS.

OFFICIANT TO PARTNER B

“Now, [PARTNER B], you have a ring that you are going to bestow to . Holding this ring, please repeat after me: “I give you this sign, of our love. An ever-present symbol, of the vows we have made today.”

• PARTNER B REPEATS

OFFICIANT TO THE RECEPTION

“Mazel tov!”

1. OPTIONAL: BOTH MEMBERS OF THE COUPLE PICK UP CANDLE TO JOINTLY LIGHT A UNITY CANDLE.
2. OPTIONAL: OFFICIANT PRESENTS THE WEDDING CONTRACT, THE KETUBAH FOR THE COUPLE AND/OR WITNESSES TO SIGN.

OFFICIANT TO THE RECEPTION

“Praise to you, Lord our God, King of the universe, who created joy and gladness, bride and groom, gladness, jubilation, dancing, and delight, love and brotherhood, peace and fellowship. Blessed art thou, Oh Lord, who unites these two people in unity. It is my happy duty to announce you Married! “Below is the “smashing of the glass” custom, which is often performed after the conclusion of the wedding ceremony.

1. FIRST, THE OFFICIANT SETS NAPKIN-WRAPPED GLASS ON THE GROUND. THIS WAY, SHATTERED GLASS WON’T GO EVERYWHERE.
2. NEXT, ONE PARTER SMASHES GLASS AND KISSES THE OTHER.

While there are various explanations for the origin of this tradition, the glass is a reminder of the destruction of the Temple in Jerusalem. The fragile state of glass also reminds us of the frailty of human relationships. Since even the strongest love is subject to breaking, the glass is broken to remind us that as it shatters, so may the marriage never break.

Contemporary Buddhist Wedding Ceremony Script – Prepared by American Marriage Ministries (AMM)

Considerations to open the ceremony: 15 minutes of walking meditation, 15 minutes of sitting  meditation, 3 sounds of the bell. 

PROCESSION

OFFICIANT TO GUESTS –  Please rise in gratitude for the (bride/ groom/ Name)

INVOCATION

• AT THIS TIME, THE INCENSE OFFERING IS SPOKEN OR SUNG.  

 (BELL, BELL, BELL) 

OFFICIANT TO GUESTS AND THE COUPLE

In gratitude, we offer this incense 
throughout space and time 
to all Buddhas and Bodhisattvas. 
May it be fragrant as Earth herself, 
reflecting careful efforts 
wholehearted awareness 
and the fruit of understanding  
slowly ripening.  
May we and all beings  
be companions of Buddhas and Bodhisattvas. 
May we awaken from forgetfulness 
and realize our true home.  

(BELL)  

• THE DISCOURSE ON LOVE FOLLOWS, READ OR SUNG IN PORTIONS OR IN ITS ENTIRETY, AS TRANSLATED BY THIỀN (ZEN) BUDDHIST THICH NHAT HANH. 

“He or she who wants to attain peace should practice being upright, humble, and capable of using loving speech. He or she will know how to live simply and happily, with senses calmed,  without being covetous and carried away by the emotions of the majority. Let him or her not do anything that will be disapproved of by the wise ones. 

And this is what he or she contemplates:

 May everyone be happy and safe, and may all hearts be filled with joy. 

May all beings live in security and in peace – beings who are frail or strong, tall or short, big or small, invisible or visible, near or faraway, already born, or yet to be born. May all of them dwell in perfect tranquility. 

Let no one do harm to anyone. Let no one put the life of anyone in danger. Let no one, out of anger or ill will, wish anyone any harm.

Just as a mother loves and protects her only child at the risk of her own life, cultivate  boundless love to offer to all living beings in the entire cosmos. 

Let our boundless love pervade the whole universe, above, below, and across. Our love will know no obstacles. Our heart will be absolutely free from hatred and enmity. Whether standing  or walking, sitting or lying, as long as we are awake, we should maintain this mindfulness of  love in our own heart. This is the noblest way of living. 

Free from wrong views, greed, and sensual desires, living in beauty and realizing Perfect Understanding, those who practice boundless love will certainly transcend birth and death.” 

(Translated by Thich Nhat Hanh)

• THE OFFICIANT MAY ALSO WISH TO SING:

Etena sacca vajjena sotthi te hotu sabbada. Etena sacca vajjena sotthi te hotu sabbada. 
Etena sacca vajjena sotthi te hotu sabbada. 

(This translates to “By the firm determination of this truth, may you ever be well.”)

(BELL) 

DECLARATION OF INTENT & VOW EXCHANGE 

• THE COUPLE SITS IN LOTUS POSITION WITH THE OFFICIANT, UNLESS THEY ARE UNABLE TO SIT COMFORTABLY IN THIS POSITION. 

OFFICIANT TO GUESTS – Today we have come together as a community of friends, family and beloved ones to witness the deepening commitment of (Partner 1) and (Partner 2) in marriage.

OFFICIANT TO THE COUPLE – Are you willing now to marry each other?

• PARTNER A AND PARTNER B ANSWER TOGETHER: WE ARE.

OFFICIANT TO THE GUESTS – Please, everyone, follow your breathing in mindfulness when you hear the sound of the bell.  

(BELL, BELL, BELL) 

Noble community, please listen. This is the precious moment when (Partner A) and (Partner B) exchange their vows, honoring the Five Awarenesses as husband and wife (spouses / partners for life / etc).

OFFICIANT TO THE COUPLE

We understand that happiness is not an individual matter and that our thoughts, words, and actions ripple out to those we love. Please listen closely to each Awareness read and say, “Yes, I do,” in firm unison if you intend to receive, study and practice it as a married couple.

• OFFICIANT STATES THE FIRST AWARENESS, WRITTEN BELOW

We are aware that all generations of our ancestors and all future generations are present in us. This is the first of the Five Awarenesses. Do you receive, study and practice it?

PARTNER A AND PARTNER B

• IN UNISON – Yes, I do. (BELL) 

OFFICIANT STATES THE SECOND AWARENESS, WRITTEN BELOW

OFFICIANT TO THE COUPLE – We are aware of the expectations that our ancestors, our children, and their children have of us. This is the second of the Five Awarenesses. Do you receive, study and practice it? 

PARTNER A AND PARTNER B

• IN UNISON – Yes, I do. (BELL) 
• OFFICIANT STATES THE THIRD AWARENESS, WRITTEN BELOW

OFFICIANT TO THE COUPLE

We are aware that our joy, peace, freedom, and harmony are the joy, peace, freedom, and harmony of our ancestors, our children, and their children. This is the third of the Five Awarenesses. Do you receive, study and practice it?  

PARTNER A AND PARTNER B

• IN UNISON – Yes, I do. (BELL) 
• OFFICIANT STATES THE FOURTH AWARENESS, WRITTEN BELOW 

OFFICIANT TO THE COUPLE

We are aware that understanding is the very foundation of love. This is the fourth of the Five Awarenesses. Do you receive, study and practice it?

PARTNER A AND PARTNER B

• IN UNISON – Yes, I do. (BELL) 
• OFFICIANT STATES THE FIFTH AWARENESS, WRITTEN BELOW

OFFICIANT TO THE COUPLE

We are aware that blaming and arguing can never help us and only creates a wider gap  between us, that only understanding, trust, and love can help us change and grow. 
This is the fifth of the Five Awarenesses. Do you receive, study and practice it?  

PARTNER A AND PARTNER B

• IN UNISON – Yes, I do. (BELL) 

OFFICIANT TO THE COUPLE

You become a married couple with the support of the Three Gems: Buddha, Dharma and Sangha, your community. Your happiness will be the happiness of many others. Each full-moon day,  please consider reciting these Five Awarenesses together so your understanding of them, yourselves, and each other continues to grow.

With hands brought together at your heart, please bow deeply to one another as an inward and outward sign of your mutual respect. Your love and commitment will continue to strengthen as you practice together.

• THE COUPLE BRINGS HANDS TO HEARTS AND BOW TO ONE ANOTHER WHILE IN LOTUS POSITION.

OFFICIANT TO THE COUPLE – Now is the time to read personal vows to one another. (Partner A), you may start. 

• PARTNER A READS THE VOWS THEY HAVE WRITTEN.

 (Partner B), please share your vows. 

• PARTNER B READS THE VOWS THEY HAVE WRITTEN.

  
PRONOUNCEMENT

OFFICIANT TO THE COUPLE

Please turn toward your loved ones as we bring our palms into the position of a lotus flower, offering our support and love to you as a married couple.

As earth is our witness, it gives me great honor, along with all your loved ones to pronounce you husband and wife! (Or substitute wife and wife / partners for life / newlyweds / married/ etc)

Please kiss your (bride/ husband/ spouse)! 

RECESSION BLESSING

OFFICIANT TO THE COUPLE

Taking your first steps as a married couple, in gratitude and reverence for this beautiful earth  that holds us — may your happiness and peace grow each day and be a blessing to those who know you.

Enjoy your life together!

• AT THIS TIME, THE OFFICIANT WILL BEGIN TO CHANT OR SING IF THE COUPLE WISHES. A RECOMMENDATION FROM AMM MINISTER REV. KARLA JOHNSTON IS TO RECITE AN EXCERPT FROM ‘CHANTING FROM THE HEART: BUDDHIST CEREMONIES AND DAILY PRACTICES’ BY THICH NHAT HANH AND THE MONKS AND NUNS OF PLUM VILLAGE]

Modern Hindu Wedding Ceremony Script – Sourced From Great Officiants

Opening

(Groom enters mandap and stands)

We are gathered here today to celebrate one of life’s greatest moments, the joining of two hearts. In this ceremony today we will witness the joining of GROOM/BRIDE and GROOM/BRIDE in marriage.

Ganesh Pooja

We will begin this ceremony with a prayer in the name of Lord Ganesh. And as such, I will now invoke the lord to remove all obstacles always and forever, from all activities and endeavors.

vakratunda mahaakaaya suryakoti samaprabhaa.

nirvighnam kurumedeva sarvakaaryeshu sarvadaa.

(Salutations to the supreme Lord Ganesha, whose curved trunk and massive body shines like a million suns and showers his blessings on everyone. Oh my lord of lords Ganesha, kindly remove all obstacles, always and forever from all my activities and endeavors.)

(bride enters with father/brother/uncle/bridesmaids/groomsmen. All standing.)

Mangalmantras

I shall now recite the Mangalmantras, to bless this wedding from the planet Mars, or Mangal. Mangal represents strength, courage, passion, and devotion. Using it in a positive way, it will keep you unified throughout your life.

Om Ang Angarkaaya Namah

Om Kum Kujaaya Namah

Om Krim Kum Kujaya Namah

Om Kraam Kreem Kraum sah Bhaumaya Namah

Om Agnirmoordhadivah Kakutpati Prithivya Ayam

Apaang Retaan Si Jinvati Bhoumay Namah

I Dos

GROOM/BRIDE, do you take GROOM/BRIDE to be your Husband/Wife? (“I do”)

Do you promise to love, honor, cherish and protect him/her, forsaking all others and holding only unto him/her forevermore? (“I do”)

GROOM/BRIDE, do you take GROOM/BRIDE to be your Husband/Wife? (“I do”)

Do you promise to love, honor, cherish and protect him/her, forsaking all others and holding only unto him/her forevermore? (“I do”)

Jai Mala – Garland Exchange

(Groom garlands the bride, bride garlands the groom)

(Groomsmen and Bridesmaid and non-immediate family disperse, or stand by the mandap. Immediate family enters the mandap. Bride, groom, and immediate family sit.)

Brahma Vivaah – Kanya Daan – Give Away

To symbolize the family giving away their child, the groom/bride’s parents will now perform the Brahma Vivaah, the most noble act they will perform in their lifetime. The groom/bride’s mother will now pour holy water into the groom/bride’s father’s palms, which will pour into the groom/bride’s palm, and finally into the groom/bride’s palms. This symbolizes the continuity of life and passing the family heritage to the next generation. GROOM/BRIDE now symbolizes Lord Vishnu, and as they pour the water, I will recite a verse.

Kaayena Vaachaa Manasendriyairvaa Buddhyaatmanaa Vaa Prakriteh Svabhaavaatah Karomi Yadhyadh Sakalam Parasmai Naaraayanaayeti Samarpayaami

(I offer everything to Lord Vishnu; my actions, my soul, good and bad. I bow to you great lord, Vishnu)

Vows

I, GROOM/BRIDE take you GROOM/BRIDE to be my husband/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 you and honor you

I will laugh with you and cry with you.

Through the best and the worst,

Through the difficult and the easy.

Whatever may come I will always be there.

As I have given you my hand to hold

So I give you my life to keep

I, GROOM/BRIDE take you GROOM/BRIDE to be my husband/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 you and honor you

I will laugh with you and cry with you.

Through the best and the worst,

Through the difficult and the easy.

Whatever may come I will always be there.

As I have given you my hand to hold

So I give you my life to keep

Words of Wisdom

GROOM/BRIDE AND GROOM/BRIDE I would ask that you always treat yourself and each other with respect, and remind yourselves often of what brought you together today.

Give the highest priority to the tenderness, gentleness and kindness that your marriage deserves. When frustration and difficulty assail your marriage – as they do to every relationship at one time or another – focus on what still seems right between you, not only the part that seems wrong.

This way, when clouds of trouble hide the sun in your lives and you lose sight of it for a moment, you can 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 by abundance and happiness.

Ring and Mangalsutra

Before exchanging rings, GROOM/BRIDE will place the mangalsutra around GROOM/BRIDE’s neck. The mangalsutra represents GROOM/BRIDE being surrounded by love.

The ring is a symbol of the unbroken circle of love. Love freely given has no beginning and no end, no giver and no receiver for each is the giver and each is the receiver. May these rings always remind you of the vows you have taken.

(groom places mangalsutra on the bride’s neck)

I GROOM/BRIDE, take thee, GROOM/BRIDE to be my Husband/Wife- To have and to hold, in sickness and in health, for richer or for poorer, in joy and sorrow, and I promise My love to you. And with this ring, I take you as my Husband/Wife, for as long as we both shall live.

I GROOM/BRIDE, take thee GROOM/BRIDE, to be my Husband/Wife. To have and to hold, in sickness and in health, for richer or for poorer, in joy and sorrow, and I promise My love to you. And with this ring, I take you as my husband/wife, for as long as we both shall live.

Vivaah Homa (Sacred Fire)

We will now bless this marriage with one of the holiest of elements, fire, or Agni. This fire represents light, power, and knowledge, and will act as a witness to this ceremony. I will recite a prayer to Lord Agni as the couple place Ghee, a type of clarified butter, in the fire.

Shubham karothi kalyanam, aarogyam, dhana sampadam,

Shathru budhi vruddhi vinasaya deepa jyothi namo nama.

(Salutations and salutations,

To the holy flame of the lamp,

Which bestows on me all that is good,

Health as well as wealth,

And destroys all my enemies.)

The couple will now stand and circle the fire clockwise. The Groom/Bride will stand to the Groom/Bride’s right, supported by his/her brother/sister. As they circle the fire, I will recite a poem the groom/bride has written to express his/her love (couple stand, circle the fire clockwise.)

The Groom/Bride will now move to the left side of the Groom/Bride, indicating her transition into her new family.

Saptapadi – Seven Steps

The couple will now take seven steps to reiterate their vows for their married life.

Step One: We will provide for and support each other

Step Two: We will develop mental, physical, and spiritual strength

Step Three: We will share all wordly possessions

Step Four: We will acquire knowledge, happiness, and peace

Step Five: We will raise strong and virtuous children

Step Six: We will enjoy the fruits of all seasons

Step Seven: We will always remain friends and cherish each other

Closing

To make your relationship work will take love. This is the core of your marriage and why you are here today.

It will take trust, to know, that in your hearts, you truly want what is best for each other.

It will take dedication, to stay open to one another – and to learn and grow together.

It will take faith, to go forward together, without knowing exactly what the future brings.

And it will take commitment, to hold true to the journey you both have pledged to today.

By the power vested in me I now pronounce you . . . . . .

The Kiss

You may kiss the Groom/Bride.

I would like to introduce the happy couple(Couple leave mandap and walk down the aisle, followed by family seated inside mandap. Rice/flower petals may be thrown as the happy couple walks down the aisle.)

Muslim Wedding Ceremony Script – Sourced From Masjid Tucson

In the name of GOD, Most Gracious, Most Merciful

Salamun Alaykum / Peace be upon you; thank you all for coming for this wonderful occasion.
By the Grace of God, we are all gathered here to witness the marriage of

Full name, son of _____ & _____
and
Full name, daughter of _____ & _____

as they take their vows God willing, and pledge to love and support each other throughout their lives.

Let us begin by reciting the Al-Fateha from the Quran: (Sura 1 – Arabic or English).

Mã Shã Allãh. La Elaha Ella Allah – there is no god except God.

Marriage

Marriage is a Divine and Sacred Institution and a very special gift from God to the human race. Marriage provides the platform for two people to be intimately close to one another, to enjoy, cherish and seek tranquility in each other. Marriage allows a man and woman to share their joys and burdens freely, support each other throughout their lives and most of all, encourage each other to be united and steadfast along with their offspring in their pursuit of God’s grace and pleasure.

Let us now Insha Allah read a few verses on marriage from Quran, God’s Final Testament to mankind:

I seek refuge in God from Satan the rejected…

Marriage is a Divine Institution:

[30:21] Among His proofs is that He created for you spouses from among yourselves, in order to have tranquility and contentment with each other, and He placed in your hearts love and care towards your spouses. In this, there are sufficient proofs for people who think.

[7:189] He created you from one person (Adam). Subsequently, He gives every man a mate to find tranquility with her. …

God encourages marriage:

Marriage requires mutual attraction and dowry. It creates a harmonious social support system.

[24:32] You shall encourage those of you who are single to get married. They may marry the righteous among your male and female servants if they are poor. GOD will enrich them from His grace. GOD is Bounteous, Knower.
[24:33] Those who cannot afford to get married shall maintain morality until GOD provides for them from His grace….

[4:24] Also prohibited are the women who are already married, unless they flee their disbelieving husbands who are at war with you. These are GOD’s commandments to you. All other categories are permitted for you in marriage, so long as you pay them their due dowries. You shall maintain your morality, by not committing adultery. Thus, whoever you like among them, you shall pay them the dowry decreed for them. You commit no error by mutually agreeing to any adjustments to the dowry. GOD is Omniscient, Most Wise.

Through marriage, God allows procreation:

God willing there will be children and submitting parents must inculcate an active system of submission in their homes and also guide their children to righteousness.

[30:20] Among His proofs is that He created you from dust, then you became reproducing humans. [25:54] He is the One who created from water a human being, then made him reproduce through marriage and mating. Your Lord is Omnipotent.

[20:132] You shall enjoin your family to observe the contact prayers (Salat), and steadfastly persevere in doing so. We do not ask you for any provisions; we are the ones who provide for you. The ultimate triumph belongs to the righteous.

[2:132] Moreover, Abraham exhorted his children to do the same, and so did Jacob: “O my children, GOD has pointed out the religion for you; do not die except as submitters.”

[25:74] And they say, “Our Lord, let our spouses and children be a source of joy for us, and keep us in the forefront of the righteous.”

[24:36] (God’s guidance is found) in houses exalted by GOD, for His name is commemorated therein. Glorifying Him therein, day and night? [24:37] People who are not distracted by business or trade from commemorating GOD; they observe the Contact Prayers (Salat), and give the obligatory charity (Zakat), and they are conscious of the day when the minds and the eyes will be horrified.[24:38] GOD will certainly reward them for their good works and will shower them with His grace. GOD provides for whomever He wills without limits.
Marriage requires spouses to devoted and faithful to one another: God wants the couple to stay united, polygamy is only under specific circumstances, divorce is discouraged, and adultery is prohibited.

[4:129] You can never be equitable in dealing with more than one wife, no matter how hard you try. Therefore, do not be so biased as to leave one of them hanging (neither enjoying marriage, nor left to marry someone else). If you correct this situation and maintain righteousness, GOD is Forgiver, Most Merciful.

[5:5] Today, all good food is made lawful for you. The food of the people of the scripture is lawful for you. Also, you may marry the chaste women among the believers, as well as the chaste women among the followers of previous scripture, provided you pay them their due dowries. You shall maintain chastity, not committing adultery, nor taking secret lovers. Anyone who rejects faith, all his work will be in vain, and in the Hereafter he will be with the losers.

[5:5] … You shall maintain chastity, not committing adultery, nor taking secret lovers. …

Always remain close and let not the devil drive a wedge between you:

You may occasionally have some selfish issue but remember to reverence God, seek His guidance, keep your anger in check, consult and reconcile. If you reverence God, God will sort everything out for you.

[4:128] If a woman senses oppression or desertion from her husband, the couple shall try to reconcile their differences, for conciliation is best for them. Selfishness is a human trait, and if you do good and lead a righteous life, GOD is fully Cognizant of everything you do.

[4:35] If a couple fears separation, you shall appoint an arbitrator from his family and an arbitrator from her family; if they decide to reconcile, GOD will help them get together. GOD is Omniscient, Cognizant.

[17:53] Tell My servants to treat each other in the best possible manner, for the devil will always try to drive a wedge among them. Surely, the devil is man’s most ardent enemy.

[41:34] Not equal is the good response and the bad response. You shall resort to the nicest possible response. Thus, the one who used to be your enemy, may become your best friend.

Marriage is a great gift from God:

Show your appreciation to God by loving and respecting one another and help each other to be steadfast and righteous. Remember that God has made you differently, so you must learn to kill your egos and make sacrifices for each other.

[2:223] Your women are the bearers of your seed. Thus, you may enjoy this privilege however you like, so long as you maintain righteousness. You shall observe GOD and know that you will meet Him. Give good news to the believers.

[4:32] You shall not covet the qualities bestowed upon each other by GOD; the men enjoy certain qualities, and the women enjoy certain qualities. You may implore GOD to shower you with His grace. GOD is fully aware of all things.

[4:34] The men are made responsible for the women, and GOD has endowed them with certain qualities, and made them the bread earners. The righteous women will cheerfully accept this arrangement, since it is GOD’s commandment, and honor their husbands during their absence. …

Marriage is a very special and sacred relationship between two souls and requires a solemn pledge:

Insha Allah you will soon be making a solemn pledge before God. God gives us many examples of solemn pledges in the Quran. I am reading a couple for you to emphasize the point.

For example, Jacob asked for a solemn pledge from his sons before sending them with their half brother to Egypt:

[12:66] He said, “I will not send him with you, unless you give me a solemn pledge before GOD that you will bring him back, unless you are utterly overwhelmed.” When they gave him their solemn pledge, he said, “GOD is witnessing everything we say.”

God also took a solemn pledge from the prophets:

[3:81] GOD took a covenant from the prophets, saying, “I will give you the scripture and wisdom. Afterwards, a messenger will come to confirm all existing scriptures. You shall believe in him and support him.” He said, “Do you agree with this, and pledge to fulfill this covenant?” They said, “We agree.” He said, “You have thus borne witness, and I bear witness along with you.”
[33:7] Recall that we took from the prophets their covenant, including you (O Muhammad), Noah, Abraham, Moses, and Jesus the son of Mary. We took from them a solemn pledge.

Remember that God is always a witness and He records our solemn pledges. Making a pledge before God is a great responsibility:

[64:4] He knows everything in the heavens and the earth, and He knows everything you conceal and everything you declare. GOD is fully aware of the innermost thoughts.
[33:15] … making a pledge with GOD involves a great responsibility.
[76:7] They fulfill their pledges and reverence a day that is extremely difficult.

God willing, today you, (Bride name) and (Groom name), will make a solemn pledge of marriage to one another before God and all of us here will have the pleasure of witnessing this great moment in your lives.

I now ask you, (Bride & Groom full names):
– in the presence of God and this congregation, to declare your intent as under:

Addressing the Bride:

(Bride name), you have known (Groom name) to be a believer and worshipper of God alone and you are entering this marriage to him with trust in him to be your husband and by your own free will?
Ans: Yes.

The dowry payable by (Groom name) to you has been mutually agreed upon and you are satisfied with it and the terms of execution?
Ans: Yes.

(Bride name), you are aware of the many verses God has taught us about marriage in His scripture. On that basis, you will know that marriage is a divine institution and you must therefore show your appreciation to God and sincerely work the marriage to the best of your ability. You must respect your husband, stand by him at all times, be patient, steadfast and understanding, and enjoin him to be righteous and steadfast in the worship of God alone. Shall we consider this to be a solemn pledge from you to sincerely do this the best you can with God’s support and guidance?
Ans: Yes, I pledge to do this God willing.

And with this (Bride name), I ask you: With God as your witness, do you take (Groom name) to be your husband (in sickness and in health, in good times or bad, and in joy as well as in sorrow)?
Ans: I do.

Addressing the Groom:

(Groom name), you have known (Bride name) to be a believer and worshipper of God alone and you are entering this marriage to her with trust in her to be your wife and by your own free will?
Ans: Yes.

The dowry payable by you to (Bride name) has been mutually agreed upon and you are executing the same as per the agreement between yourselves?
Ans: Yes.

(Groom name), you are aware of the many verses God has taught us about marriage in His scripture. On that basis, you will know that marriage is a divine institution and you must therefore show your appreciation to God and sincerely work the marriage to the best of your ability. You must respect your wife, stand by her at all times, be patient, steadfast and understanding, and enjoin her to be righteous and steadfast in the worship of God alone. Shall we consider this to be a solemn pledge from you to sincerely do this the best you can with God’s support and guidance?
Ans: Yes, I pledge to do this God willing.

And with this (Groom name), I ask you: With God as your witness, do you take (Bride name) to be your wife (in sickness and in health, in good times or bad, and in joy as well as in sorrow)?
Ans: I do.

(Groom name & Bride name), God willing in a short while after today, you both will sign a document that weds you both legally as per the human law of the land.* But this ceremony here today is of a marriage between you two submitters in the presence of other submitters with God as the Divine Witness. He is the Knower of everything and innermost intentions of you both. Therefore, a verbal pledge here today between you both will make you husband and wife, to rightfully belong to each other with permission from God to live intimately in one home together. You are aware of this?
Ans: Yes, we are aware of this and we pledge to love and care for each other, support and be faithful to each other, God willing, as long as we live.

(* This will vary depending on the situation – when the couple signs a document that gives it legal recognition/registration in that country etc.)

---

I now ask both of you to exchange rings with each other as a symbolic gesture of love and bonding between you both forever. (Exchange Rings)

---

Bride says: In the name of God, Most Gracious, Most Merciful, I give this ring to you (Groom name) as a symbol of my love and commitment to be your faithful wife for as long as I live. May God guide me in my obligations to be your wife.

Groom says: In the name of God, Most Gracious, Most Merciful, I give this ring to you (Bride name) as a symbol of my love and commitment to be your faithful husband for as long as I live. May God guide me in my obligations to be your husband.

---

[46:15] … “My Lord, direct me to appreciate the blessings You have bestowed upon me and upon my parents, and to do the righteous works that please You. Let my children be righteous as well. I have repented to You; I am a submitter.”

[3:194] “Our Lord, shower us with the blessings you promised us through Your messengers, and do not forsake us on the Day of Resurrection. You never break a promise.”

In the name of God, Most Gracious, Most Merciful: In as much as you have pledged to each other your lifelong commitment, love and devotion, and with God as a witness, I now pronounce you husband and wife. May God bless you and keep you well, happy and steadfast, together in this life and the Hereafter. You may now wish one another.

Let us all pray together on this happy occasion and ask God to bless the marriage of (Groom & Bride names) and keep us all steadfastly guided in His Right Path.

We recite the Al-Fateha

Congratulations and may God bless you all.

Sikh Wedding Ceremony – Sourced From Learn Religions

Program Guide for Anand Karaj, the Sikh Wedding Ceremony

The families and friends of both the bride and groom gather in the Gurdwara, or a wedding hall, for the Anand Karaj Sikhism marriage ceremony. Wedding parties and guests assemble together in the presence of the Guru Granth. Hymns are sung as men and boys sit to one side of a central aisle, and the woman and girls to the other. Everyone sits on the floor reverently with legs crossed and folded.

The bride and groom bow before the Guru Granth, and then sit side by side at the front of the hall. The couple and their parents stand up to signify that they have given their consent for the wedding to take place. Everyone else remains seated while a Sikh offers Ardas, a prayer for the success of the marriage.

The musicians, who are called ragis, sit on a low stage and sing the hymn, “Keeta Loree-ai Kaam”, to seek God’s blessing and to convey a message that a successful marital union is achieved through grace.

A Sikh wedding official counsels the couple with the verse “Dhan Pir Eh Na Akhee-an”. They are advised that marriage is not merely a social and civil contract, but a spiritual process uniting two souls so that they become one inseparable entity. The couple is reminded that the spiritual nature of family harmony is given emphasis by the example of the Sikh gurus, who themselves entered matrimony and had children.

• The husband is to love and respect his wife, encourage her with kind consideration, recognize her individuality, regard her as his equal, offering guidance and support.
• The wife is to show her love and respect with loyalty, support her husband’s objectives willingly, harmonize with him, and share in happiness and sorrow, prosperity or adversity.
• The couple is to ally themselves with each other in an endeavor to achieve a harmonious union, intellectually, emotionally, physically, materially and spiritually.

The bride and groom, affirm the acceptance of their marital obligations and bow together before the Guru Granth. The bride sits to the left of the groom directly in front of the Guru Granth.

The groom’s sister (or other female relation) drapes a long scarf, shawl, or length of turban cloth, called a palla, around the groom’s shoulders and places the right end in his hands.

The bride’s father (or one acting in his stead) takes the left end of the palla and arranges it over the bride’s shoulder and gives her the left end to hold.

The ragis sing the hymn: “Pallai Taiddai Lagee” symbolizing joining the couple by the palla to each other and God.

Lavan, the Four Wedding Rounds

The four wedding hymns of Lavan represent four stages of love. The hymns describe the development of marital love between husband and wife, while simultaneously signifying the love and longing of the human soul for God.

The bride and groom walk around the Guru Granth, as the ragis sing the words of the Lavan. The groom walks to the left clockwise. Holding his end of the palaa, he walks around the Guru Granth. The bride follows him holding on to her end of the palaa. The couple makes their first marital adjustment by keeping in step with each other. They bow together before the Guru Granth concluding the 1st wedding round and resume sitting. The 2nd, 3rd & final, 4th round, are conducted in the same manner.

The entire congregation sings “Anand Sahib”, the “Song of Bliss”. The hymn emphasizes the fusing of two souls into one as they merge with the divine.

Conclusion

The ragis sing two hymns to complete the ceremony:

• “Veeahu Hoa Mere Babula” – celebrates the marriage of the couple and their union with God.
• “Pooree Asa Jee Mansaa Mere Raam” – describes the happiness at having found the perfect partner.

Everyone stands for the final prayer. After it has been said, everyone bows, and resumes sitting.

A Sikh reads a random verse called a hukam which concludes the ceremony. Lastly, a ragi serves everyone a handful of prashad, a sacred sweet blessed during the prayer.

The married couple and their families, express thanks to all present for taking part in the celebration. The wedding party guests congratulate the married couple. Everyone gathers in the langar hall to eat. Parents distribute boxed confections such as ladoo to guests.The bride’s in-laws may bestow upon her a new spiritual Sikh name taken from the hukam to welcome into her new family. Bride or groom may also take the name of their spouse followed by the surname of Singh or Kaur.

Pagan Handfasting – With Fire, Flowers and Offerings – Prepared by American Marriage Ministries (AMM)

1. Set up: Choose a meaningful day and place to hold your ceremony. Arrange chairs or blankets for guests in a circle around the ceremonial altar, where the couple and officiant (or Pagan priest or priestess) will stand. Prepare the altar with the spiritual symbols the couple wishes to use. (Often these represent the spirit, the mind, the heart and emotions, and the body). You may also include the wedding rings (unless this is a betrothal ceremony, or if other gifts will be used instead, or if the rings will be presented by a guest), the handfasting cord, candles, incense, or flowers. If a ceremonial fire will be used for the offerings, this can be set up ahead of the ceremony. If the offerings will be burned later, stones or wood may be used to receive the offerings and burned later.
2. Around the circle, place flowers and seasonal branches in vases or arranged decoratively. If the couple tends a garden together, they can gather flowers, vines, or grasses there. Use flowers in the bud, and fully bloomed, and incorporate branches with many leaves and those with fewer, to represent the many stages of growth. In front of the altar, place a vase with fresh water, empty except for two flowers, one chosen by each of the partners. Flowers may be chosen based on their symbolic meanings, if desired, or not.
3. Mark each of the four directions with a symbolic colored ribbons or group of flowers, for example yellow in the east, red in the south, blue in the west, and green in the north, to correspond with each cardinal direction’s element (air, fire, water, and earth, respectively).
4. Before or as the guests arrive, the officiant will walk the circle, grounding themselves and connecting with the purpose of the day. If they wish, they may call to each of the four directions as they walk and may carry incense or sage. The couple will also ground and calm themselves in their chosen way, preparing for the ritual.

The Handfasting Script

OFFICIANT TO THE GATHERING

“Welcome, beloved friends and family. We’ve gathered here today beneath this open sky to celebrate and bless this union between these two souls. As we begin, let us call first upon the gods (specific deities can be named now if desired) and upon our ancestors. To the spirits of those who came before us and who gave us life, and those too who were once of this world and our family, our beloved dead. We ask that all those who wish to be here, join us.”

1. (IF THERE ARE SPECIFIC NAMES TO BE READ, THEY CAN BE READ NOW, “BY NAME, WE INVITE… BE WITH US HERE, TODAY, IF YOU WISH TO BE.”)
2. NEXT, THE OFFICIANT CALLS UPON THE SPIRITS OF THE FOUR DIRECTIONS, TURNING TO EACH POINT IN THE CIRCLE, AND ASKING FOR THE BLESSINGS AND PROMISES OFFERED BY EACH. IF A GUEST HAS OFFERED TO STAND AT EACH POINT, THE MINISTER CAN SPEAK TO THEM.

OFFICIANT FACING EAST

“To the East! I call upon the spirits of the East, the spirits of air, whose energy brings communication and clear connections between heart, mind, and body. Bless us with the promise of growth and fresh beginnings. “

OFFICIANT FACING SOUTH
“To the South! I ask the spirits of the South, of fire, to bring the warmth of home and heat of passion, and a promise of light in darkness. Bless this union. “

OFFICIANT FACING WEST
“To the West! I call upon the West, spirits of water, that love be deep, forgiving, exciting, and passionate. We ask for the blessing and promise of healing, flexibility, and change. “

OFFICIANT FACING NORTH

“To the North! I ask the spirits of the North, the spirits of earth, to bring blessings of steadiness and stability, and the promise of a true home.”

1. GUESTS ARE ENCOURAGED TO HOLD HANDS WITH ONE ANOTHER, TO HONOR THE ENERGY OF THE OCCASION AND TO STRENGTHEN THE CIRCLE.
2. THE OFFICIANT ASKS EACH OF THE COUPLE THEIR NAMES, AND THEN ENSURES THEY ARE PRESENT OF THEIR OWN WILL AND DESIRE.

OFFICIANT TO PARTNER A

“What is your name?”

• PARTNER ONE ANSWERS.

OFFICIANT TO PARTNER B
“What is your name?”

• PARTNER TWO ANSWERS.

OFFICIANT TO PARTNER A

“[PARTNER A], do you come here to be joined with [PARTNER B]?”PARTNER A TO OFFICIANT

“I do, for they are the beloved of my heart. “OFFICIANT TO PARTNER B
“[PARTNER B], do you come here to be joined with [PARTNER A]?”PARTNER B TO OFFICIANT

“I do, for they are the beloved of my heart.”

1. THE OFFICIANT MAY ASK THE COUPLE TO KNEEL, OR THEY MAY REMAIN STANDING.
2. NEXT, THERE MAY BE A READING OF POETRY, A MEANINGFUL PIECE OF WRITING, OR A SONG, AND THE OFFICIANT WILL SHARE A BLESSING FOR THE COUPLE.

OFFICIANT TO THE GATHERING

“Love like all things of this earth grows gradually, strengthening leaf by leaf and breath by breath with each new day. Bless this couple, that they may tend to their love as we tend to all things on this earth, with nurturing care and patience.

Help them to grow love as boundless as the sky, as steadfast as the mountain, as bountiful as the field, as passionate as the sea, and as assuring as the light. All spirits, all of the earth, and all of us here, bless this couple with company and hope in their darkest days, and laughter and joy in their brightest.

Bless them that their love may continue to grow, always, with each new day.”

1. IF KNEELING, THE COUPLE STANDS, FACING THE OFFICIANT.
2. THE OFFICIANT ASKS THEM EACH IF THEY PROMISE TO CAUSE NO HARM TO THE OTHER, AND THEY ANSWER. THIS CAN BE DONE INDIVIDUALLY OR IN UNISON.
3. IF THERE ARE RINGS, THE OFFICIANT MAY HOLD THEM BRIEFLY ABOVE THE CANDLE OR BURNING SMUDGE SAGE IN SYMBOLIC CLEANSING, BUT THIS IS NOT NECESSARY.
4. FACING EACH OTHER, THE COUPLE EXCHANGES THE RINGS. IF THERE ARE OTHER SPIRITUALLY SIGNIFICANT GIFTS THE COUPLE WANT TO OFFER EACH OTHER, THESE ARE EXCHANGED NOW. EXAMPLES MAY BE STONES, GEMS, KEEPSAKES, OR OTHER NATURAL SYMBOLS.
5. THE COUPLE SHARE ANY WORDS, SPECIAL READINGS, OR PERSONAL VOWS THEY WISH TO SAY TO EACH OTHER.
6. THE COUPLE REMAIN FACING AND CLASP HANDS, LEFT TO RIGHT AND RIGHT TO LEFT. (IF IT’S MORE COMFORTABLE AND THEY’VE DECIDED ON THIS BEFOREHAND, THE COUPLE CAN TURN SIDE TO SIDE, AND CLASP ON ONE HAND TOGETHER, OR ANY OTHER COMFORTABLE COMBINATION.)
7. THE OFFICIANT LIFTS THE CORD OR RIBBON AND WRAPS IT AROUND THE WRISTS LOOSELY, IN A FIGURE EIGHT. IT CAN BE KNOTTED OR DRAPED.
8. NEXT AN OFFERING IS MADE. AN OFFERING IS THE WILLING SACRIFICE OF SOMETHING VALUABLE, YOU MUST LOSE ACCESS TO THE THING. AN EXAMPLE IS THE POURING OF HONEY, WINE, AND MILK ONTO A FIRE. IF A FIRE IS NOT PERMITTED, HEARTH STONES OR OTHER MATERIALS MAY BE USED IN ITS PLACE, AND LATER RETURNED TO A FIRE.
9. WHEN THE OFFERING AND ANY FINAL BLESSING HAVE BEEN MADE, THE OFFICIANT ANNOUNCES THE COUPLE AS EITHER (PREVIOUSLY AGREED UPON COMMITMENT) ENGAGED, MARRIED FOR A SET TIME IF THE MARRIAGE IS INTENTIONALLY TEMPORARY, MARRIED FOR AS LONG AS LOVE LASTS, MARRIED UNTIL DEATH, OR BOUND FOR ETERNITY.

OFFICIANT TO THE GATHERING

“In this circle, joined by those you know, in front of gods and spirits, known and unknown, the welcome blessings of the four directions, and the ancestors, I announce you handfasted, united for as long as your love shall last.”

Note: It is important that a parting thank you and farewell is given to all gods, spirits, directions, and ancestors called to bless the union.

OFFICIANT TO THE GATHERING

“We thank the spirits of the earth, gods and goddesses, ancestors and our guests and family for joining us here today. We give our love and thanks to the East, to the South, to the West, and to the North. Thank you for blessing this day and union, and we wish you farewell.”

• THE COUPLE GIVE THEIR THANKS FOR THE BLESSINGS, AND OFFER THEIR OWN FAREWELL TO ALL GODS, SPIRITS, DIRECTIONS, AND ANCESTORS CALLED.

COUPLE TO THE GATHERING

“We thank the spirits of the earth, gods and goddesses, ancestors and our guests and family for joining us here today. We give our love and thanks to the East, to the South, to the West, and to the North. Thank you for blessing this day and union, and we wish you farewell.

1. THE OFFICIANT ANNOUNCES THE CONCLUSION OF THE CEREMONY.
2. THIS RITUAL IS ENDED, LET’S CELEBRATE!
3. THE COUPLE MAY BE RELEASED FROM THE CORD (OR REMAIN BOUND UNTIL CONSUMMATION, WHICH IS TRADITIONAL FOR SOME WICCANS) AND THEY LEAVE THE CIRCLE.
4. A FEAST AND CELEBRATION WITH GUESTS MAY FOLLOW.

Modern Wiccan Handfasting Ceremony – Prepared by American Marriage Ministries (AMM)

Ceremony Set Up  

1. Set up: In a meaningful place, on a meaningful day, make a circle with rope or stones around the place where the couple and minister/officiant (or priest/priestess) will stand during the ceremony. If an altar will be used, prepare this with the spiritual symbols the couple wishes to use. You may also include the wedding rings (unless they will be presented by a guest), handfasting cord, candles, incense, or flowers. If a ceremonial fire will be used for the offerings, this can be set up ahead of the ceremony, or stones can be arranged in its place.
2. Using a compass or the sun/stars, mark each of the four directions with a symbolic item corresponding with each cardinal direction’s element. For example, decorate the eastern point with elements of air (incense, feathers, windchimes), the southern point with fire (candles, lanterns, or a small ceremonial fire), the western point with water (bowls or cups of water), and the northern point with earth (stones, clay sculpture or pottery, flowers).
3. The officiant may walk the circle with incense or sage as guests arrive, connecting with the spiritual purpose of the day and the space, and preparing and cleansing the circle for the sacred event. The couple and the officiant should take this time to ground themselves.
4. Guests may gather around but should remain seated or standing outside of the circle. The officiant and couple enter the circle, along with any additional people helping to wrap the cord or present gifts.
5. When everyone has arrived, the minister greets the guests and calls upon the gods/goddesses, spirits, beloved dead, or ancestors. If there are gods or goddesses of specific importance to the couple, these can be named. If a list of deceased loved ones has been provided by the couple (sometimes called the mighty or beloved dead), the officiant can read these names aloud, calling on their spirits by name to join in the celebration.

The Handfasting Script

OFFICIANT TO THE GATHERING

“Welcome, beloved friends and family. We’ve gathered here today beneath this open sky to celebrate and bless this union between these two souls. As we begin, let us call first upon the gods (specific deities can be named now if desired) and upon our ancestors. To the spirits of those who came before us and who gave us life, and those too who were once of this world and our family, our beloved dead. We ask that all those who wish to be here, join us.”

1. (IF THERE ARE SPECIFIC NAMES TO BE READ, THEY CAN BE READ NOW, “BY NAME, WE INVITE… BE WITH US HERE, TODAY, IF YOU WISH TO BE.”)
2. NEXT, THE OFFICIANT CALLS UPON THE SPIRITS OF THE FOUR DIRECTIONS, TURNING TO EACH POINT IN THE CIRCLE, AND ASKING FOR THE BLESSINGS AND PROMISES OFFERED BY EACH. IF A GUEST HAS OFFERED TO STAND AT EACH POINT, THE OFFICIANT CAN SPEAK TO THEM.

OFFICIANT FACING EAST

“To the East! I call upon the spirits of the East, the spirits of air, whose energy brings communication and clear connections between heart, mind, and body. Bless us with the promise of growth and fresh beginnings. “

OFFICIANT FACING SOUTH
“To the South! I ask the spirits of the South, of fire, to bring the warmth of home and heat of passion, and a promise of light in darkness. Bless this union. “

OFFICIANT FACING WEST
“To the West! I call upon the West, spirits of water, that love be deep, forgiving, exciting, and passionate. We ask for the blessing and promise of healing, flexibility, and change.”

OFFICIANT FACING NORTH
“To the North! I ask the spirits of the North, the spirits of earth, to bring blessings of steadiness and stability, and the promise of a true home.”

1. GUESTS ARE ENCOURAGED TO HOLD HANDS WITH ONE ANOTHER, TO HONOR THE ENERGY OF THE OCCASION AND TO STRENGTHEN THE CIRCLE.
2. THE OFFICIANT ASKS EACH OF THE COUPLE THEIR NAMES, AND THEN ENSURES THEY ARE PRESENT OF THEIR OWN WILL AND DESIRE.

OFFICIANT TO PARTNER A

“What is your name?”

• PARTNER A RESPONDS.

OFFICIANT TO PARTNER B

“What is your name?”

• PARTNER B RESPONDS.

OFFICIANT TO PARTNER A
“[PARTNER A], do you come here to be joined with [PARTNER B]?”

PARTNER A TO OFFICIANT“I do, for they are the beloved of my heart.”

OFFICIANT TO PARTNER B
“[PARTNER B], do you come here to be joined with [PARTNER A]?”

PARTNER B TO OFFICIANT“I do, for they are the beloved of my heart.”

• THE OFFICIANT MAY ASK THE COUPLE TO KNEEL, OR THEY MAY REMAIN STANDING. NEXT, THERE MAY BE A READING OF POETRY, A MEANINGFUL PIECE OF WRITING, OR A SONG, AND THE OFFICIANT WILL SHARE A BLESSING FOR THE COUPLE.

OFFICIANT TO THE GATHERING

“Love like all things of this earth grows gradually, strengthening leaf by leaf and breath by breath with each new day. Bless this couple, that they may tend to their love as we tend to all things on this earth, with nurturing care and patience.

Help them to grow love as boundless as the sky, as steadfast as the mountain, as bountiful as the field, as passionate as the sea, and as assuring as the light. All spirits, all of the earth, and all of us here, bless this couple with company and hope in their darkest days, and laughter and joy in their brightest.

Bless them that their love may continue to grow, always, with each new day.”

IF KNEELING, THE COUPLE STANDS, FACING THE OFFICIANT.

1. THE OFFICIANT ASKS THEM EACH IF THEY PROMISE TO CAUSE NO HARM TO THE OTHER, AND THEY ANSWER. THIS CAN BE DONE INDIVIDUALLY OR IN UNISON.
2. IF THERE ARE RINGS, THE OFFICIANT MAY HOLD THEM BRIEFLY ABOVE THE CANDLE OR BURNING SMUDGE SAGE IN SYMBOLIC CLEANSING, BUT THIS IS NOT NECESSARY.
3. FACING EACH OTHER, THE COUPLE EXCHANGES THE RINGS. IF THERE ARE OTHER SPIRITUALLY SIGNIFICANT GIFTS THE COUPLE WANT TO OFFER EACH OTHER, THESE ARE EXCHANGED NOW. EXAMPLES MAY BE STONES, GEMS, KEEPSAKES, OR OTHER NATURAL SYMBOLS.
4. THE COUPLE SHARE ANY WORDS, SPECIAL READINGS, OR PERSONAL VOWS THEY WISH TO SAY TO EACH OTHER.
5. THE COUPLE REMAIN FACING AND CLASP HANDS, LEFT TO RIGHT AND RIGHT TO LEFT. (IF IT’S MORE COMFORTABLE AND THEY’VE DECIDED ON THIS BEFOREHAND, THE COUPLE CAN TURN SIDE TO SIDE, AND CLASP ON ONE HAND TOGETHER, OR ANY OTHER COMFORTABLE COMBINATION.)
6. THE OFFICIANT LIFTS THE CORD OR RIBBON AND WRAPS IT AROUND THE WRISTS LOOSELY, IN A FIGURE EIGHT. IT CAN BE KNOTTED OR DRAPED.
7. NEXT AN OFFERING IS MADE. AN OFFERING IS THE WILLING SACRIFICE OF SOMETHING VALUABLE, YOU MUST LOSE ACCESS TO THE THING. AN EXAMPLE IS THE POURING OF HONEY, WINE, AND MILK ONTO A FIRE. IF A FIRE IS NOT PERMITTED, HEARTH STONES OR OTHER MATERIALS MAY BE USED IN ITS PLACE, AND LATER RETURNED TO A FIRE.
8. WHEN THE OFFERING AND ANY FINAL BLESSING HAVE BEEN MADE, THE OFFICIANT ANNOUNCES THE COUPLE AS EITHER (PREVIOUSLY AGREED UPON COMMITMENT) ENGAGED, MARRIED FOR A SET TIME IF THE MARRIAGE IS INTENTIONALLY TEMPORARY, MARRIED FOR AS LONG AS LOVE LASTS, MARRIED UNTIL DEATH, OR BOUND FOR ETERNITY.

OFFICIANT TO THE GATHERING

“In this circle, joined by those you know, in front of gods and spirits, known and unknown, the welcome blessings of the four directions, and the ancestors, I announce you handfasted, united for as long as your love shall last.”

It is important that a parting thank you and farewell is given to all gods, spirits, directions, and ancestors called to bless the union.

OFFICIANT TO THE GATHERING

“We thank the spirits of the earth, gods and goddesses, ancestors and our guests and family for joining us here today. We give our love and thanks to the East, to the South, to the West, and to the North. Thank you for blessing this day and union, and we wish you farewell.”

• THE COUPLE GIVE THEIR THANKS FOR THE BLESSINGS, AND OFFER THEIR OWN FAREWELL TO ALL GODS, SPIRITS, DIRECTIONS, AND ANCESTORS CALLED.

COUPLE TO THE GATHERING

“We thank the spirits of the earth, gods and goddesses, ancestors and our guests and family for joining us here today. We give our love and thanks to the East, to the South, to the West, and to the North. Thank you for blessing this day and union, and we wish you farewell.”

1. THE OFFICIANT ANNOUNCES THE CONCLUSION OF THE CEREMONY.
2. THIS RITUAL IS ENDED, LET’S CELEBRATE!
3. THE COUPLE MAY BE RELEASED FROM THE CORD (OR REMAIN BOUND UNTIL CONSUMMATION, WHICH IS TRADITIONAL FOR SOME WICCANS) AND THEY LEAVE THE CIRCLE.
4. A FEAST AND CELEBRATION WITH GUESTS MAY FOLLOW.