Shaday M. Lackey

Invocation:

Dearly Beloved and Honored Guests,

Let us open this afternoon's ceremony with a brief prayer. "Father thank you for this day, the breath of life that runs through us and the ability to live purposefully and love meaningful. Thank you for this couple and the loved ones that know love without bounds, bless them all the days you grant to them. Amen.

Declaration of Intent:

We are gathered together here to join Carolyn Miller and Antoine Bacote in the spiritual union of marriage.

This union is not to be entered into lightly but thoughtfully and seriously, and with a deep realization of its obligations and responsibilities. Please be reminded that love, loyalty, honesty, and understanding are the foundations of a happy and enduring home.

Antoine and Carolyn will now affirm their vows.

*(Vows)*

Antoine Bacote, do you take this woman Carolyn Miller to be your lawfully wedded wife, to be your best friend, life partner, to have and to hold, in sickness and in health, in good times and times of adversity, for richer or poorer, keeping yourself unto her for as long as you both shall live? If so, reply "I do".

*(Wait for Confirmation)*

Carolyn Miller, do you take this man Antoine Bacote to be your lawfully wedded husband, to be your best friend, life partner, to have and to hold, in sickness and in health, both in good times and times of adversity, for richer or poorer, keeping yourself unto him for as long as you both shall live? If so, reply "I do".

*(Wait for Confirmation)*

Antoine and Carolyn have chosen to signify their love by the symbolic blending of a unity sand ceremony. As the two streams of sand blend their separate colors are evident but as time and life moves them about the blend and bond together more and cannot be separated. Carolyn and Antoine, you may proceed.

(Unity Sand)

Despite the state of the world, love patient, love is kind, love endures all.

Antoine, please place the ring symbolizing your endless love on Carolyn's left ring finger. (WAIT) Carolyn, please place the ring symbolizing your endless love on Antoine's left ring finger.

(Family Blessing)

ANd now by special request, the couple has asked that __________ offer a special blessing or prayer on behalf of the family.

*(Ring Exchange)*

By the authority vested in me by American Marriage Ministries, Universal Life Ministries, and the beautiful State of Georgia it is with great pleasure that I now pronounce you husband and wife!