Samuel David Adams

We are here this morning to witness the joining of Tenisha Adams-Jackson and Melvin Jackson marriage.

To start, I want to take a little time to recite some important words about love from some famous authors and scholars. As you listen to these words, receive them and allow your heart and soul to digest the wisdom and compassion of these words.

"In all the world, there is no heart for me like yours. In all the world, there is no love for you like mine." — Maya Angelou

"I love you not only for what you are, but for what I am when I am with you." — Elizabeth Barrett Browning

"Love is the thing that is always having the last word—even when those words are 'I'm sorry,' or 'Forgive me,' or 'I love you no matter what.'" — Cleo Wade

"Love has nothing to do with what you are expecting to get—only with what you are expecting to give—which is everything." — Katharine Hepburn

Then, Apostle Paul says, "Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, 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."

Melvin and Tenisha, please remember that love, loyalty, and understanding are the foundations of a happy and enduring home.

(To the couple): Please face each other.

*(Vows)*

Tenisha, though you maybe repeating these words I say to you, say them to Melvin from your heart.

I love you unconditionally and without hesitation. I vow to love you, encourage you, trust you, and respect you. As a family, we will create a home filled with learning, laughter, and compassion. I promise to work with you to foster and cherish a relationship of equality knowing that together we will build a life far better than either of us could imagine alone. Today, I choose you to be my husband. I accept you as you are, and I offer myself in return. I will care for you, stand beside you, and share with you all of life’s adversities and all of its joys from this day forward, and all the days of my life.

Melvin, though you maybe repeating these words I say to you, say them to Tenisha from your heart.

Today, I promise you this: I will laugh with you in times of joy, and comfort you in times of sorrow. I will share in your dreams and support you as you strive to achieve your goals. I will listen to you with compassion and understanding and speak to you with encouragement. Together, let us build a home filled with learning, laughter and light, shared freely with all who may live there. Let us be partners, friends and lovers, today and all of the days that follow.

Tenisha Adams-Jackson and Melvin Jackson will now exchange rings as a symbol of their love and commitment.

*(Ring Exchange)*

By the authority vested in me by American Marriage Ministries and the State of Georgia I now pronounce you wife and husband!