Lynda J Paulson

We’re all here today to celebrate the marriage of Gabbi and Jacob and to be witnesses and supporters of the commitment they share with one another. Together we’re a group of the most important people in their lives in which they invited here to recognize that we’ve all played some special part in the love they share today and to witness their commitment to each other.

Gabbi and Jacob have shared with us how much it means to them that all of you are here and to recognize how important each one of you are to their relationship. Today represents not only the joining of Gabbi and Jacob, but also the joining of their families and friends.

Jacob and Gabbi would like to recognize their parents on this occasion. They offer their gratitude for all the love and care their parents have shown in raising them. The unconditional gifts of love and support that you have continually offered have inspired them to become who they are today. Without you, this day would not be possible.

The couple have also asked that we take a moment to remember mamma Kelly, who is present here in spirit.

Jacob and Gabbi have asked a few people to share a reading

READINGS

Apache Wedding Blessing

1 Corinthians 13: 4-7

Quotes and perspectives on Marriage

Ruth 1:6

MESSAGES

Lynda’s Message

Kim’s Message

Marriage is a commitment. In marriage the “little” things are the big things. It is never being too old to hold hands. It is remembering to say, “I love you” even at the times you do not want to. It is standing together and facing the world. It is speaking words of appreciation and demonstrating gratitude in thoughtful ways. It is having the capacity to forgive. It is giving each other an atmosphere in which each can grow. It is a common search for the good and the beautiful. It is not only marrying the right partner — it is being the right partner.

MARRIAGE VOWS

Jacob and Gabbi, you have chosen to recite your vows, and it is with these words you express your binding promises to love, honor, and cherish one another. If you are ready to make these promises to each other I invite you now to face each other and declare your intentions.

Then please turn to each other and share your vows.

Gabbi reads her vows.

Jacob reads his vows.

EXCHANGE OF RINGS

Jacob and Gabbi, You have chosen to seal your vows by exchanging rings. These rings symbolize your commitment. Rings are derived from humble beginnings - of imperfect metal to create something striking where there was once nothing at all. It is customarily worn on the ring finger as it is the only finger with a vein running directly to the heart. The wearing of the rings is a visible, outward sign that they have committed themselves to one another Gabbi and Jacob, do you have your rings?

Jacob, take this ring, place it on Gabbi’s finger and repeat after me…

I give you this ring as a symbol of my love and faithfulness.

Gabbi, take this ring, place it on Jacob’s finger and repeat after me…

I give you this ring as a symbol of my love and faithfulness.

LIGHTING OF THE UNITY CANDLE

By sharing your vows and exchanging rings here today you both have decided to share the rest of your lives together. This unity is symbolized through the lighting of these candles. One, representing you, Gabbi and all that you were, all that you are, and all that you will be, and the other representing you, Jacob, and all that you were and all that you are, and all that you will be. These lights were given to you by your parents. Today, your mothers will light your flame so that you can become one, yet still burn bright as individuals. Just as these flames can never be separated, so will your marriage be united as one.

PRAYER

Gabbi and Jacob, you have committed your love to each other by exchanging your vows. You have symbolized your commitment by exchanging rings. You both have committed to share your lives with each other by lighting the unity candle. There is just one more question Mom and I need each of you to answer and then you can get to celebrating.

Gabbi

Gabbi - Do you take Jacob to be your husband; to live together in the covenant of marriage? Do you promise to love him, comfort him, honor and keep him, in sickness and in health; and, forsaking all others, be faithful to him as long as you both shall live?

Gabbi: I do.

Jacob - do you take this Gabbi to be your wife; to live together in the covenant of marriage? Do you promise to love her, comfort her, honor and keep her, in sickness and in health; and, forsaking all others, be faithful to her as long as you both shall live?

Jacob: I do.

PRONOUNCEMENT

By the power vested in me, I now pronounce you husband and wife.

Now comes the fun part….. Jacob, You may kiss your bride.

It is with my honor and privilege to be the first to present to you: Mr. and Mrs. Carvalho