Tamara Gandy Washington

Wedding Sermon

Thank you friends and family that are here today to celebrate the union of (Keitaveya) and (Tim) in marriage.

officiant to couple (ME):

Today, you begin a new life together, founded in love, laughter, honesty, respect, and friendship. The promises you make to each other today should not be taken lightly. A marriage is more than a ceremony – it is a lasting and lifelong commitment.

The future promises many happy days ahead, filled with unique opportunities, adventures, and challenges. It is through trust, love, and the unfailing support of each other that you will meet these inevitable ups and downs.

As we celebrate this bond of unity today under the eyes of God, it is important that

we keep in mind that, while this is certainly an occasion of tremendous joy, the promises we witness here today are serious and life-altering commitments.

Family Blessing:

Who gives this bride today?

Bridal Companion: I do

Speak now

Minister: If there is anyone in attendance who has cause to believe that this couple should not be joined in marriage, you may speak now or forever hold your peace.

DECLARATION OF INTENT

Minister: Tim and Keitaveya please join hands.

officiant to Tim

Do you Tim, take Keitaveya to be your spouse and to live together as partners, to treat them with love and respect, and to build a marriage that grows stronger and more loving as time passes?

(Tim says Yes, I do.)

Officiant to Keitaveya

And do you, Keitaveya, take Tim to be your spouse and to live together as partners, to treat them with love and respect, and to build a marriage that grows stronger and more loving as time passes?

( Keitaveya says Yes, I do.)

WEDDING RING EXCHANGE

Officiant to the couple

If you have rings, please take them out now.

The wedding ring represents the promises and potential of marriage. It has no beginning and no end, and is a timeless symbol of the love and commitment you have pledged. As you wear your ring, let it remind you of the bond you've formed with your partner.

officiant to partner Tim

Tim, please place the ring on Keitaveya finger, and repeat after me:

“I give you this ring

As a symbol of my love and devotion,

As we join our lives together,

Today,

Tomorrow,

And for as long

As our love shall last.”

officiant to Keitaveya

And Keitaveya, please place the ring on Tim's finger. and repeat after me.

“I give you this ring

As a symbol of my love and devotion,

As we join our lives together,

Today,

Tomorrow,

And for as long

As our love shall last.”

PRONOUNCEMENT OF MARRIAGE

Officiant to the couple

True marriage is more than just a ceremony or a piece of paper – it is a lasting bond that joins two lives and two hearts. Marriage is love. Companionship. Trust. And Respect. May you always find strength in each other, laugh with each other, and find safety and comfort in each other’s words and company. May you celebrate many joyful seasons together, support each other when days are difficult, and continue to learn and grow closer together with each passing year.

By the virtue of the authority vested in me by the State of Wisconsin and Universal Life Church and American Marriage Ministries , I now pronounce you Husband and Wife

You may kiss your bride!

Congratulations!