Christopher David Maricle

1. Invocation

We are gathered here today to rejoice with Samantha and Bradley as they proclaim in the sight of God and in the presence of family and friends, their love for and commitment to each other. All of us here are over-joyed to share this moment with you, to celebrate with you.

When I asked these two how they met, Sam told me the first date was Taco Bell and a scary movie. Bradley quickly went serious and said, “She is so devoted and loyal.” Samantha smiled and answered, “He just makes me better.” And isn’t that what marriage is all about … being devoted to each other, and making each other better. That is the nature of married love.

2. Declaration of Intent

Love itself is divine, but the rest of us are human – and we make mistakes. A perfect marriage doesn’t mean we are perfect people. It means we strive to be humble and forgiving. It means learning to - as John Legend would say – love all you partner’s perfect imperfections. And it only works because you want it to work. If this is what you both want, I am going to ask you know to state your intentions.

Bradley, have you come here today, in the presence of this circle of love, to bind yourself to Samantha in marriage, of your own free will and without reservation?"

Absolutely yes.

Samantha, have you come here today, in the presence of this circle of love, to bind yourself to Bradley in marriage, of your own free will and without reservation?"

Totally. Yes.

Having stated your intent to bind yourselves to each other freely, I ask you now to profess your vows. Face each other and take each other’s hands, and repeat after me.

3. Vows

I, Bradley, take you Samantha , to be my wife.

I promise I will always love you.

I will always be faithful to you.

I will always be devoted to you.

All the days of my life.

 

I, Samantha, take you, Bradley, to be my husband.

I promise I will always love you.

I will always be faithful to you.

I will always be devoted to you.

All the days of my life.

Breathe deep and slow. Smile at each other while I talk to the crowd.

4 Ring Exchange

The first recorded evidence of exchanging rings is found in ancient Egyptian scrolls dating back over 3,000 years. We all know the symbolism of rings - a circle has no end. It was also believed that the center opening of the ring was a door to the future. Later, the Romans adopted the practice of giving rings made of metal -symbolizing strength and permanence. Samantha and Bradley will now present each other with rings as a symbol of their vow and enduring commitment to each other.

Bradley, take the ring in your right hand, support Samantha’s’ left hand with yours, and repeat after me.

“Samantha, please accept this ring

as a symbol of my vow

to love you now, [Cover the fingernail of index finger]

tomorrow [Cover the fingernail of middle finger]

and always. [Cover the fingernail of ring finger]

** Samantha pulls the ring onto her finger.

 Samantha, take the ring in your right hand, support Bradley’s left hand with yours and repeat after me.

“Bradley, please accept this ring

as a symbol of my vow

to love you now, [cover the fingernail of index finger]

tomorrow [cover the fingernail of middle finger]

and always. (Cover the fingernail of ring finger]

** Bradley pulls the ring onto his finger.

5. Pronouncement

You are now forever changed. Now, wherever you go – you go together. It is my most sincere wish that you will carry the joy you feel now with you always – and wake up every morning with a smile for your beloved and with deep gratitude to God for the gift you have been given in each other.

By the power vested in me by American Marriage Ministries and the State of California, it is with great joy that I now pronounce you husband and wife.

Bradley, it’s time to kiss the bride.