Amber Rose Childers

We are gathered here in the presence of God, family and friends to unite Ashley and Wesley in holy matrimony. Marriage is an honorable estate, and is therefore not to be entered lightly, but reverently, advisedly, soberly and with God’s blessing. Today, they will receive God’s greatest gift; another person to share with, grow with, change with, be joyful with and to stand with as one when trials and tribulations enter their lives. It is fitting, therefore, that we should on this occasion begin by asking for God’s blessing on this marriage.

Let us pray.

Heavenly Father, we gather to celebrate your gift of love, and its presence among us. We rejoice that these two people have chosen to commit themselves to a life of loving faithfulness to one another. We praise you, Lord, for the ways you have touched our lives with loving relationships such as Ashley and Wesley’s, and we give thanks for the special love and friendship you have put in their hearts. Renew within us an affectionate and loving spirit. Enrich our lives with the gracious gift of your love so that we may embrace others with that same love. May our participation in this celebration of love and commitment, given to us a new joy and responsibilities to the relationships that we cherish. In your loving arms we pray, Amen.

Let us revel the joy and love they have for each other today. May we treasure these memories as Ashley and Wesley, Under the eyes of God, get set to begin their new life together.

Who gives this bride?

I do. (whose gives the bride away)

If anyone has cause to object to the forming of this union, speak now or forever hold your peace. (we can take out if you want)

Marriage is a joyous occasion. It is connected in our thoughts with the charm of love, the warmth of home, and with all that is pleasant, as being one of the most important events of our lives. Its sacredness and unity are the most significant and binding covenant known in human relations.

Ashley and Wesley, as you learn to live as one; you will encounter many challenges that can help you grow. Spend time doing the things that make life precious – cooperate with each other, always make time to laugh together, and never lose appreciation for the love that you share. Remember, too, to adhere to the vows that you will make today. Seek strength from each other, give hope to each other, and let your trials help you grow together. They say love can build bridges and climb mountains — and they're right. You will find that as it grows and matures over time, your love for one another will prove both fulfilling and empowering.

Yes, there will be challenges in life, but the strength of your bond will offer you protection against life's storms. Always make your relationship a priority and continue to nurture each other. Through a commitment to love, and with the power of faith, together you will be able to navigate any obstacles that come your way.

If you are ready to assume the obligations and duties before God, as I have defined them, you will unite your hands and pledge your love and your lives to each other.

Wesley repeat after me.

I Wesley, take you, Ashley, to be my lawfully wedded wife, to have and to hold, from this day forward, for better, for worse, for richer, for poorer, in sickness and in health, to love and to cherish, for as long as we both shall live.

Now Ashley, please repeat after me.

I Ashley, take you, Wesley, to be my husband, to have and to hold, from this day forward, for better, for worse, for richer, for poorer, in sickness and in health, to love and to cherish, for as long as we both shall live.

Ashley and Wesley, please join hands. Under the eyes of God, Wesley, do you take Ashley to be your lawfully wedded wife? Do you promise to support her completely and love her unconditionally, so long as you both shall live?

Wesley: I do.

Under the eyes of God, Ashley, do you take Wesley to be your lawfully wedded husband? Do you promise to support him completely and love him unconditionally, so long as you both shall live?

Ashley: I do.

Very well, let us proceed.

You will now exchange rings as a symbol of the lifelong commitment and abiding love which you as husband and wife have promised to each other.

Wesley, please place the ring on Ashley’s finger, and repeat after me.

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

And Ashley, please place the ring on Wesley’s finger and repeat after me.

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

By the power vested in me, by the state of Illinois I pronounce you, Wesley and Ashley as husband and wife, lawfully wedded before God.

Wesley, you may now kiss the bride.

Ladies and gentlemen, it is with great honor that I officially present to you Mr. and Mrs. Wesley and Ashley Rich!!