William E. Sage

INVOCATION

Dearly beloved family and friends. We’ve come together today to unite Brittany and Johnathon in marriage. This is an extra special day, because not only are two people coming together, but two families are coming together to become one.

This contract of marriage is not to be taken lightly, but thoughtfully and seriously, with a deep realization of it's obligations and responsibilities.

Brittany and Johnathon, I want you to think about the construction of a house, or even one of the many job sites that John has worked on. The first and most important element of that construction is the foundation. Take this to heart when building your marriage, that you build it on the foundation of love, loyalty, and understanding. If you do this, it will ensure a happy and enduring home. Be devoted to one another in love, and honor one another above yourselves (Rom 12:10). Not looking after your own interests, but each of you the interests of the other (Phil 2:4). Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ, God forgave you (Eph 4:24). Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers a multitude of sins (1 Pet 3:9).

PRAYER

Pease join me in praying over them as they prepare to exchange their vows…

“Heavenly father, we humbly bow before you today praising You, and Your Son, Jesus Christ .” Lord, we ask for your blessings upon Brittany and Johnathon as we celebrate this momentous occasion in their lives. Grant them happiness and contentment, as their two lives, and their two families, become one new family.

Bless their family and friends and the relationships, which have supported, strengthened and sustained them throughout their lives. Father, bless their home as a place of love and peace.

In the name of Jesus Christ we pray, Amen

- “The joining of two hearts as husband and wife is a commitment like no other. It offers

opportunities for sharing and for personal growth that no other human relationship can equal.

A husband and wife are each other's best friend, confidant, lover, teacher, listener, and critic. The bond between a husband and wife deepens and enriches every fact of life. Happiness is fuller, and commitments are stronger.

Marriage also encourages new life and new experiences, and finds new ways of expressing love through the ups and downs of life. John and Brittany, as your journey begins as husband and wife, I would ask that you both remember to always treat each other with respect, and remind yourselves often of what brought you here today.”

DECLARATION OF INTENT / VOWS

Now, I had asked John and Brittany if they wanted to write their vows to each other, and after some time it became obvious that their hearts were just to overwhelmed with love and emotions to put it into words. So, as they face each other and join hands, I’m going to ask my helpers to please come and stand next to them

Matthew – “John, do you promise to always love our mom, and to hold her tight when she's scared, and to protect her and us from anything that can hurt us?”

ADDI – “Brittany, do you promise to always love our dad, and to help him when he can't find things, and cheer him up when he’s upset?”

Ok, now, just so that it’s legal…

Brittany, do you take John to be your lawfully wedded husband, to have and to hold from this day forward, to love, honor, and cherish, in sickness and health, forsaking all others, as long as you both shall live?”

John, do you take Brittany to be lawfully wedded wife, to have and to hold from this day forward, to love, honor, and cherish, in sickness and health, forsaking all others, as long as you both shall live?”

RING EXCHANGE

The ring, an unbroken circle, represents unending love. As often as either of you look upon these rings, may you always remember this moment and the love you have promised to one another.

- John, place this ring on Brittany’s finger and repeat after me:

“Brittany, I give you this ring as a symbol of my love and that I'm choosing to share my life with you. I give you this ring with a pledge to love you today, tomorrow, and always.

- Brittany, place this ring on John's finger and repeat after me:

“John, I give you this ring as a symbol of my love and that I'm choosing to share my life with you. I give you this ring with a pledge to love you today, tomorrow, and always.

Let me be the first to wish you both much love and happiness in your life, you both deserve it. Remember to laugh together often, and good times will follow.

PRONOUNCEMENT

Johnathon and Brittany you have pledged your love and faithfulness to each other in the company of family and friends.

By the power vested in my by the state of Ohio, I now pronounce you Husband and wife.

You may now kiss your beautiful bride.

Everyone, I am proud to present to you for the first time as husband and wife, Mr. and Mrs. Johnathon and Brittany Sage.