James Michael Cook

Dearly beloved

We are gathered here today

To get through this thing called "life"

Electric word, life

It means forever and that's a mighty long time

But I'm here to tell you there's something else

The love

A world of never ending happiness

You can always see the sun, day or night

We are gathered today to witness and celebrate the marriage of Kristen Michelle Fisher and Hamilton Casey Markham. This is not the beginning of a new relationship but an acknowledgment of the next chapter in their lives together. Kristen and Casey have spent years getting to know each other, and we now bear witness to what their relationship has become. Today, they will affirm this bond formally and publicly.

Kristen and Casey will mark their transition as a couple not only by celebrating the love between themselves, but by also celebrating the love between all of us—including the love of their parents, siblings, extended family, and friends. Without that love, today would be far less joyous.

This marriage is not to be entered into lightly but thoughtfully and seriously, and with a deep realization of its obligations and responsibilities. Please remember that love, loyalty, communication and mutual understanding are the foundations of a happy and enduring home.

Kristen and Casey will now confirm their vows.

*(Vows)*

Do you Hamilton Casey Markham take this woman Kristen Michelle Fisher to be your lawfully wedded partner, to have and to hold, in sickness and in health, in good times and woe, for richer or poorer, keeping yourself unto her for as long as you both shall live?

*(Wait for Confirmation)*

Do you Kristen Michelle Fisher take this man Hamilton Casey Markham to be your lawfully wedded partner, to have and to hold, in sickness and in health, in good times and woe, for richer or poorer, keeping yourself unto him for as long as you both shall live?

*(Wait for Confirmation)*

Kristen and Casey, please join hands as I recite this poem, chosen by Casey, to reflect this solemn day. The poem is titled "Blessing of the Hands"

"These are the hands of your best friend, young and strong and full of love for you, that are holding yours on your wedding day, as you promise to love each other today, tomorrow, and forever.

These are the hands that will work alongside yours, as together you build your future.

These are the hands that will passionately love you and cherish you through the years, and with the slightest touch, will comfort you like no other.

These are the hands that will hold you when fear or grief fills your mind.

These are the hands that will countless times wipe the tears from your eyes; tears of sorrow, and tears of joy.

These are the hands that will tenderly hold your children.

These are the hands that will help you to hold your family as one.

These are the hands that will give you strength when you need it.

And lastly, these are the hands that even when wrinkled and aged, will still be reaching for yours, still giving you the same unspoken tenderness with just a touch."

Kristen and Casey will now exchange rings as a symbol of their love and commitment.

*(Ring Exchange)*

A ring is an unbroken circle, with ends that have been joined together, and it represents your union. It is a symbol of infinity, and of your infinite love. When you look at these rings on your hands, be reminded of this moment, your commitment, and the love you now feel for each other.

Casey, place the ring on Kristen's finger and repeat after me:

Kristen, I give you this ring/ as a symbol of my love/ with the pledge to love you today/ tomorrow/ always and forever.

Kristen, place the ring on Casey's finger and repeat after me:

Casey, I give you this ring/ as a symbol of my love/ with the pledge to love you today/ tomorrow/ always and forever.

*(PRONOUNCEMENT)*

Before these witnesses, you have pledged to be joined in marriage. You have now sealed this pledge with your wedding rings. By the authority vested in me by American Marriage Ministries and the State of New York, I now pronounce you husband and wife. You may celebrate this joyous occasion with a kiss.