Michael Peter Bielas

Processional: Music plays. The wedding party takes positions in the chapel. Pastor Mike is at the head location; the party moves to the prescribed spots.

Invocation: Friends and family, we are gathered here today in a solemn yet joyful celebration and spiritual union between Gabriel and Ellery in holy matrimony. This ceremony is solemn because it is a contract of union not to be entered lightly since it is a covenant before God, man, and the state in a legally binding marriage. Additionally, it is joyful as it celebrates the marriage between man and wife. Please be mindful that this union should be built upon love, unity, and loyalty to one another, with God in the center, which are the foundations for a happy and enduring marriage.

Short intro to knowing Gabriel.

Open Prayer: Pastor Mike opens the ceremony with a prayer blessing for the couple.

Readings: Genesis: 2:20-24 (by reader Fred?) Today, we celebrate this union between man and woman according to the Scriptures and rejoice in this union. We publicly witness this covenant union before God and man.

2nd reading: 1 Cor 13:4-8. Pastor Mike reads and provides a short expounding on this Scripture. As a symbol and dedication of this love and unity, Gabriel and Ellery will now light the unity candle.

The lighting of the Unity Candle: Gabriel and Ellery each light candles, and together, they light the center candle as a sign and symbol of love, unity, and loyalty.

Exchange personal vows: In front of the Unity Candle, the couple will now exchange personal vows with one another. (suggest writing and reading them)

Declaration of Intent: The couple repositions in front of Pastor Mike. Then, the formal declaration of vows.

Do you, Gabriel, take Ellery to be your lawfully wedded wife, to have and to hold, in sickness and in health, in good times and hard times, for richer or poorer, keeping yourself for her as long as you shall both live? Groom: I do

Do you, Ellery, take Gabriel to be your lawfully wedded husband, to have and to hold, in sickness and in health, in good times and hard times, for richer or poorer, keeping yourself for him as long as you shall both live? Bride: I do

Exchange of the rings: The couple exchange rings (must work out how that is done)

Gabriel and Ellery will now exchange rings. The ring, an unbroken circle, represents unending love. The ring symbolizes their love and fidelity to one another and is a physical reminder of their promises on this day.

Pronouncement: By the authority vested in me as a minister of the faith and by the state of Arizona, I pronounce you as husband and wife. You may now kiss the bride.

Breaking of the glass: As a symbol of the delicate nature of marriage, the groom and bride will break the glass.

Ladies and gentlemen, I am proud to present the newlyweds to you for the first time!

Signing of the marriage certificate: All parties sign the doc

Recessional: The wedding party exits first and moves to the reception hall.