Charlton Winston

--- Processional ---

Dearly Beloved and Honored Guests,

We are gathered here to join James Byers and Tonatzi Silva in the spiritual union of marriage.

--- Blessing ---

Who presents this woman in marriage?

* (Wait for Confirmation) *

*** YOU MAY ALL BE SEATED ***

 

--- Opening Remarks ---

I would like to welcome the family, the friends, and most importantly, the couple, Tonatzi and James. Every one of us is honored to be here celebrating this incredibly joyous occasion, witnessing the most important day in their lives together. As Tonatzi and James take their relationship to the next level, this gathering is a testament to love and solidarity.

Some might say that Tonatzi and James are already committed to each other, and I would not disagree. But today, they are proclaiming that commitment not only to us, the people closest to them, but to the world as well. They are saying, “we love each other, we support each other, and we want to spend the rest of our lives together.”

--- Words on Marriage ---

Marriage is not something that should be entered into lightly since it requires that each person be willing to support the other in both good times, and in bad. Marriage requires that each person, at times, put their wishes and needs second to those of their partner. One partner may need to laugh at jokes that are not funny or eat food that is not to their taste. But in return, marriage provides a level of joy that one person by themselves cannot reach and, a type of life that only two people can create together.

In today’s world, there are plenty of wonderful ways for a couple to spend their lives together that do not include marriage. So, why get married? Is it an excuse to throw a great party? A way to get friends and family from far away to visit? Those things certainly matter, but it is deeper than that. From where I stand, marriage is one partner promising to the other that in addition to loving them, they want to commit themselves to the other for the rest of their lives. It is stating that they will be there for their partner when they need them most. That they will provide comfort, a kind word, and a shoulder to cry on. And when times are good, as we hope they always are, it is a promise that the two of them will be there to laugh together. Marriage is saying that not only do you want to be partners, but you also want to be partners for life. 

--- Proclamation of Love ---

Tonatzi and James will now share their vows.

*(Vows)*

James and Tonatzi, today you take each other in marriage knowing in your hearts that you will be a constant friend, a faithful partner in life, and the one true love of each other. On this special day, you both give in the presence of God, your families, and friends your sacred promises to stay by each other's side as husband and wife, in sickness and in health, in joy and in sorrow, as well as through the good times and the bad.

James, will you take Tonatzi to be your wife; will you love, honor, and cherish her, now and forevermore?

* (Wait for Confirmation) *

Do you promise to love Tonatzi faithfully through laughter and tears, through joy and sorrow, and to stand by her side?

* (Wait for Confirmation) *

Do you promise to trust and honor her, laugh, and cry with her, and to always be there when she needs you?

* (Wait for Confirmation) *

Come what may, do you promise to always be there for her, to give her your hand to hold, and your life to keep?

* (Wait for Confirmation) *

Tonatzi, will you take James to be your husband; will you love, honor, and cherish him, now and forevermore?

* (Wait for Confirmation) *

Do you promise to love James faithfully through laughter and tears, through joy and sorrow, and to stand by his side even when the New York Giants are playing?

* (Wait for Confirmation) *

Do you promise to trust and honor him, laugh, and cry with him, especially when LaPookie Bear retires?

* (Wait for Confirmation) *

Come what may, do you promise to always be there for him, give him your hand to hold, and your life to keep?

* (Wait for Confirmation) *

 

--- This Day and Forevermore (The Rings) ---

Tonatzi and James will now exchange rings as a symbol of their love and commitment.

* (Ring Exchange) *

As you, James, place this ring on Tonatzi's finger, please repeat after me:

I give you this ring to wear with love and joy.

* (Wait for Repeat) *

As a ring has no end, neither shall my love for you.

* (Wait for Repeat) *

I choose you to be my wife this day and forevermore.

* (Wait for Repeat) *

As you, Tonatzi, place this ring on James' finger, please repeat after me:

I give you this ring to wear with love and joy.

* (Wait for Repeat) *

As a ring has no end, neither shall my love for you.

* (Wait for Repeat) *

I choose you to be my husband this day and forevermore.

* (Wait for Repeat) *

 

--- Stronger as a Pair ---

We are almost there; you have just sworn your love for each other and promised to support and remain committed to each other. In just a moment, I will make the pronouncement that everyone has been waiting to hear. But before we do that, and while I still have everyone’s attention, I want to wish you, Tonatzi and you, James a wonderful life together and remind you to never take the other for granted. As you settle into married life together, remember that you are stronger as a pair than as individuals. You will make mistakes. We all do. But the key is to remember the reasons why you are together, why you got married, and why you love the other person. Remember these reasons, communicate with each other, have a good laugh or cry, and as long as you do so together, you will be able to get through anything.

 

--- Together in Marriage ---

James and Tonatzi, you have declared before all of us that you will live together in marriage. You have made life-long promises to each other, through your vows and the exchange of wedding rings. Having pledged yourselves each to the other, I do now, pronounce you to be husband and wife.

--- The Kiss ---

You may now kiss your bride.

*** Presentation ***

It is my honor to be the first to present to you, Mr. & Mrs. James & Tonatzi Byers!!!