Anika S. Benson

INVOCATION

We are gathered here today in the presence of God and as witnesses to celebrate the marriage of Ronald and Verena in holy matrimony. Surrounded by love, you come together in this beautiful moment to begin your new life as one.

TO THE BRIDE & GROOM

Ronald and Verena The contract of marriage is most solemn and is not to be entered into lightly, but thoughtfully and seriously with a deep realization of its obligations and responsibilities.

It demands love, loyalty, communication, understanding, forgiveness, and a commitment to stand by each other, no matter what life brings.

These are the foundations of a happy and enduring home. No other human ties are more tender, and no other vows are more important than those you are about to pledge.

DECLARATION OF INTENT

RONALD, do you take VERENA to be your lawfully wedded wife

Will you respect, honor, and cherish her;

Love, Trust, and commit to her,

through joy and pain, in sickness and in health,

and whatever life may throw at you both

Until death do you part? I DO

VERENA, do you take RONALD to be your lawfully wedded husband

Will you respect, honor, and cherish him;

Love, Trust, and commit to him,

through joy and pain, in sickness and in health,

and whatever life may throw at you both

Until death do you part? I DO

RING EXCHANGE

The exchange of rings represents your commitment to each other,

an unbroken circle of love. Let these rings remind you of the vows you've made

and this cherished moment.

Ring Blessing

"Bless these rings, O LORD, and grant that VERENA and RONALD, who GIVE them and WEAR them, may always live in faithfulness, unity, love, and peace. Amen."

Ronald repeats after me:

I, VERENA, with this ring, give you my heart.
I promise to love you, stand by you,

and be your safe place.
Through every joy and challenge,

I will walk beside you.

This ring is a symbol of my lasting love and loyalty.

I Choose You—Now and Forever.”

Verena repeats after me:

I, RONALD, with this ring, give you my heart.
I promise to love you, stand by you,

and be your safe place.
Through every joy and challenge,

I will walk beside you.

This ring is a symbol of my lasting love and loyalty.

I Choose You—Now and Forever.”

CLOSING PRAYER

Lord, we thank You for bringing Ronald and Verena together. Bless this marriage with peace, patience, and a love that grows stronger every day.

Guide their steps, protect their home, and let Your grace cover everything they face together. May they always choose each other, lean on each other, and never forget this moment. In Your name we pray. Amen.

PRONOUNCEMENT

Ronald and Verena, having declared your love and commitment to one another in the presence of God and these witnesses — by the authority vested in me by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, it is my joy and honor to pronounce you husband and wife!

THE KISS

You may now seal your love with a kiss!