Samuel S. Cummings, D.D.

Good afternoon, everyone!

We are here on this magnificent and beautiful day and in the very esteemed presence of these witnesses to celebrate one of life's greatest moments – we are all present to give recognition to the worth and beauty of love – and to publicly witness the creation of an outward bond of marriage that Mandy and Rich have already been creating inwardly.

Their love and intention has created this marriage and we are gathered here today to join the celebration and acknowledgment of their love and bond.

Many of us have traveled great distances to gather here today. And I’m sure Rich and Mandy join in with me in welcoming you, and taking the time to be here to celebrate with us. You’ve given of yourselves a valuable commodity: your time and kindness. Proverbs 12:26: "The righteous choose their friends carefully."

You both have family who have passed, and cannot be with us today in person, but we all know they are here with us – and how proud they are of you on this day.

[CHARGE TO THE COUPLE]

Every single one of us gathered here today have a story, each with a unique cover, binding, page type, even chapter numbers! Rich, Mandy… you’ve begun to write a few chapters of your own story, finding your own narrative in this, your story together. This This is a new beginning for the both of you – that you will be writing together, and I'd like to offer some gentle reminders to ease your lifelong task of living and growing together.

BE KIND: Be kind to each other and when you disagree, do it respectfully for each other. A word of encouragement can do so much more than a word of harshness. 2 Samuel 9:1: “David asked, “Is there anyone still left of the house of Saul to whom I can show kindness for Jonathan’s sake?”

BE UNDERSTANDING: Be understanding by showing forgiveness and care for each other. The spirit of forgiveness gives our hearts a little more room for love and a little more compassion. 2 Timothy 2:7: "Think over what I say, for the Lord will give you understanding in everything."

BE COMMUNICATIVE: Be communicative with each other and share the joy that's in your heart and the sorrow that burdens your soul. Open your hearts to each other and find the love. Proverbs 13:17: "A wicked messenger falls into trouble, but a faithful envoy brings healing."

A final thought from the Good Book: 1 Corinthians 13, verse 4: “Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast: it is not proud,” and verse 7: “It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always preserves.

[MOMENT OF REFLECTION]

The bonds of matrimony are those which should not be entered into lightly. As such, these solemn vows they make today bind them in this life – and into the next.

Rich, do you take Mandy to be your wedded wife – to comfort, to cherish, to uphold and behold as your partner in matrimony until death separates you?

Mandy, do you take Rich to be your wedded husband – to comfort, to cherish, to uphold and behold as your partner in matrimony until death separates you?

From this moment forward – your lives are now intertwined. You are now both forever changed, and forever with each other by this single act – the act of marriage. Your friendship and your care and your love has brought forth a new, beautiful, spiritual relationship. May all your tomorrows be for the best, and may your love for each other only grow deeper day by day.

May I have the rings, please?

These rings are made of precious metals; purified and strengthened by the heat of many fires in its history – from the formation of our planet Earth, to the forge of the jeweler who brought forth these instruments of love and affection, they are a symbol of the wealth that resides in each of you and the love and care you have for one another.

Wedding bands are also outward symbols of fidelity, of strength of unity and the love and tenderness that are shared – with one another.

Mandy, please take Rich’s ring, and repeat after me:

[REFRAIN]

I give you this ring to wear;

As a symbol of my abiding love;

My eternal faith;

My undying devotion;

It is an outward reminder of our inner unity.

Rich, please take Mandy’s ring, and repeat after me:

[REFRAIN]

To make your relationship together work… it will take time and love. Continue to date each other. Take time to consider each other. Take time to keep building the trust that has fostered your love and relationship, which will continue to build trust.

Because, it takes trust to say what’s in your hearts. What you truly want. What you truly need, and develop dedication.

It takes dedication to stay open with one another… to learn and grow together. Loyalty comes from dedication. Dedication comes from trust. Trust comes from thoughtfulness and consideration.

It’s going to take work. It’s going to take time. But, if you hold true to each other, you’ll always be with other on our journey through life together.

By the power vested in me by the Great State of Illinois, and the United States of America, I now pronounce you Husband and Wife. Rich, please kiss your Bride.