Megan Cheree McLees

Invocation

We are gathered here today in the sight of God, and the presence of friends and loved ones, to celebrate one of life's greatest moments. We are here to give recognition to the beauty of love that is shared between Russell and Nicole as they complete their family in Holy matrimony. Marriage is a contract not to be entered into lightly but thoughtfully and seriously and with a deep realization of the obligations and responsibilities. Marriage is the moment where your hearts and souls are joined together for eternity.

Prayer

Heavenly Father, we humbly bow before you today praising You, Lord, and Your Son, Jesus Christ. Lord we ask for your blessings upon Russell and Nicole, as we celebrate this momentous occasion in their lives. Grant them happiness and contentment, as their two lives become one, as they create a new family and explore the depths of their love for one another. Bless their families and friends and the relationships, which have supported, strengthened and sustained them throughout their lives. Bless their home as a place of love and of peace. In the name of Jesus Christ we pray, Amen.

Marriage is not just putting on a beautiful dress, or a nice suit. It isn't about having a big party, celebrating with friends and family, or partying to the late hours of the night - although we definitely are going to do just that! All those things are what a wedding is about, but marriage... marriage is about the continued learning of not just living together as a couple of two separate lives, but living your lives as one complete life. It means continually moving forward as husband and wife, where you work towards the success of your family. Let nothing stand in the way of your marriage. The success of the longevity of your marriage really rests upon you. To honor your bride, to be a loving supporting father, to support your groom to influence his decisions on his future ambitions, and to be a nurturing, loving mother..

You fell in love by chance, and have had ups and downs, ins and outs-- but you're here today because you're making a choice. You both are choosing each other. You've chosen to be with someone who enhances you, who makes you think, makes you smile, and makes every day brighter. Are you ready?

Please face one another and hold hands. Russell, do you take Nicole to be your lawfully wedded wife, to have and to hold from this day forward, to love, honor, and cherish, in sickness and health, forsaking all others, for as long as you both shall live?

( I do )

Nicole, do you take Russell to be your lawfully wedded husband, to have and to hold from this day forward, to love, honor, and cherish, in sickness and health, forsaking all others, for as long as you both shall live?

( I do )

Ring Exchange

May we now have the rings? The ring, an unbroken circle, represents unending love. As often as either of you look upon these rings, may you be reminded of this moment and the love you have promised to one another.

Russell please place this ring on Nicole's finger and repeat after me.

Nicole, I give you this ring as a symbol of my love and that I'm choosing to share my life's journey with you. I give you this ring with the pledge to love you today, tomorrow, and always.

Nicole, please place this ring on Russell's finger and repeat after me.

Russell, I give you this ring as a symbol of my love and that I'm choosing to share my life's journey with you. I give you this ring with the pledge to love you today, tomorrow, and always.

Russell and Nicole-- I want to wish you both much love and happiness as you begin your new journey. Remember to keep lots of laughter in your life and love will never be far behind. You have pledged your faith to each other in the company of your family and friends. By the power invested in me by the State of California, I now pronounce you husband and wife.

Russell, you may now kiss your beautiful bride.

Family and friends, I am proud to present for the first time as husband and wife, Mr. and Mrs. Russell Santoro.