Thomas Wayne Smith

Dearly Beloved Family and Friends,

We are gathered here today in the presence of God and these witnesses to celebrate one of life's greatest blessings: the marriage of Ricky Sutton and Angela Deal.

Today is more than a ceremony, more than a celebration, and more than the signing of a legal document. Marriage is a sacred covenant established by God, a commitment entered into with love, faith, and purpose. It is a promise to walk through life together, honoring one another, supporting one another, and keeping God at the center of that journey.

As many of you know, Angela is not only my cousin, but someone I have always considered my sister and best friend. It is a tremendous honor and privilege to stand here today and witness the love that Ricky and Angela share. Their relationship has grown through laughter, challenges, milestones, and everyday moments, and today they choose to commit themselves to one another for the rest of their lives.

Marriage is not about finding someone perfect. It is about choosing each day to love, respect, encourage, forgive, and grow together. It is a partnership built on trust, strengthened through faith, and sustained by God's grace.

Today, Ricky and Angela stand before us to make those promises.

Declaration of Intent

Ricky, do you take Angela to be your lawfully wedded wife, to love and cherish her, to stand beside her in joy and in hardship, in times of abundance and times of need, in sickness and in health, and to remain faithful to her as long as you both shall live?

(Wait for Confirmation)

Angela, do you take Ricky to be your lawfully wedded husband, to love and cherish him, to stand beside him in joy and in hardship, in times of abundance and times of need, in sickness and in health, and to remain faithful to him as long as you both shall live?

(Wait for Confirmation)

Ricky and Angela will now exchange rings.

These rings are a visible symbol of an invisible promise. Their circular shape has no beginning and no end, representing the enduring nature of the covenant you are making today. May these rings serve as a daily reminder of your love, your commitment, and God's presence in your marriage.

(Ring Exchange)

Marriage Blessing Prayer

Let us pray.

Heavenly Father, we thank You for bringing Ricky and Angela to this moment and for the love that has led them here today. As they begin this new chapter as husband and wife, we ask for Your blessing upon their marriage.

May their home be filled with love, patience, laughter, grace, and peace. Strengthen them through life's challenges, deepen their friendship with each passing year, and help them always honor the covenant they have made before You today.

May they be quick to forgive, faithful in their commitment, and united in purpose. Let their marriage be a reflection of Your love and a testimony of Your goodness to all who know them.

Lord, guide their steps, protect their future, and bless their life together abundantly.

In Jesus' name we pray, Amen.

Pronouncement

Ricky and Angela, today you have declared your love before God, your family, and your friends. You have exchanged vows and rings as symbols of the covenant you have made with one another.

Therefore, by the authority vested in me by American Marriage Ministries and the State of Texas, and in recognition of the promises you have made before God and these witnesses, I now pronounce you husband and wife.

Ricky, you may kiss your bride!

Ladies and gentlemen, it is my honor and privilege to present to you for the very first time:

Mr. and Mrs. Ricky and Angela Sutton!