I was asked to officiate at the baptism and christening of the nephews of a bride I married earlier this year. Two little infant boys and one energetic preschooler. It was the first baptism I've performed as clergy. The venue was the south coast botanical gardens on crenshaw blvd. Although I did flub a line or two, the family seemed pretty pleased. My practice has really expanded in the past year, with Aaron's memorial a year and a week ago, five weddings this year and now this.
I began with talking about the tradition of Mikvah, ritual bathing and the concept of immersion in a life of the spirit. Ended with the Lord's Prayer. Hope to do more of these, keep me in mind for your non-denominational events!
Sunday, December 18, 2011
Sunday, December 12, 2010
We meet here today to honor and pay tribute to the life of Aaron Song, and to express our love and admiration for him.
Also to try to bring some comfort to those of his family and friends who are here and have been deeply hurt by his sudden death.
Aaron is survived by his sister’s Lisa and Cheryl, and his brother Jason. He will be dearly missed by his partner David.
You are all very welcome, my name is Danny Redmond, and it's a great privilege and honor for me to be here this afternoon to officiate at the funeral of such a well liked and respected gentleman.
Aaron wasn't a particularly religious person, so it's befitting that his funeral ceremony should reflect what he was, ...... a gentle, .....kind, ......loving person; devoted to his family and friends.
Its only natural that we should be sad today, because in a practical sense, Aaron is no longer a part of our lives, "we must die, we know" said a character in Shakespeare, " tis but the time and drawing days out that men stand upon", and so we all come to ponder the life and death of a truly wonderful man; with confused and mixed feelings.
For we have a powerful sense of loss; combined with a recognition that; if death must come, its as well that its not unduly prolonged, we don't want to see someone we love suffer, so this sorrow; and our sense of the fitness of things; don't sit easily together, one purpose of our proceedings here today; is in some way to try to reconcile those feelings.
Today is also a day for memories, today will be remembered for many reasons, but mainly I hope it will be remembered by you all; as a very special day, a special day in which you shared some time with others; in order to pay your last respects; and to say both mentally and physically; a sad and fond farewell to a lovely man/ , ....a man/ whom we were all so very privileged to have known.
Maya Angelou recently wrote;
When I think of death, and of late the idea has come with alarming frequency, I seem at peace with the idea that a day will dawn when I will no longer be among those living in this valley of strange humors.
I can accept the idea of my own demise, but I am unable to accept the death of anyone else. I find it impossible to let a friend or relative go into that country of no return. Disbelief becomes my close companion, and anger often follows in its wake. I answer the heroic question 'Death, where is thy sting?' with ' it is here in my heart and mind and memories.'
We have come together from different places, and we are all at different stages on our journey through life.
Our paths are varied and we look at life in different ways.
But there is one thing we all have in common, at one point or another, and to some degree or other, our lives have touched the life of Aaron.
We are here this afternoon in order to pay our last respects and bid a sad but fond farewell to Aaron, we are here also, so that in our own way we can celebrate, honor and pay tribute to his life, and in doing so we express our sincere love and admiration for him .
And so this afternoon we've put aside our usual daily activities for a while, and gathered here to give expression to the thoughts and feelings that well up in us at this time of loss.
And also because in one-way or another, Aaron's death affects us all.
I know that today is a sad day, but I hope at the end of this farewell ceremony for Aaron, that you will feel glad that took the opportunity to do some of your grieving in the presence of others who have known and loved him.
Our ceremony for Aaron will not be religious as that would be against his wishes and out of keeping with his character, I know there may be those among you who for whom religious faith is a central part of life, and who are more familiar with a different form of service, but I hope we can agree that the human values we all share are of far more lasting importance than those matters that may divide us in this respect.
I never had the privilege of knowing Aaron, but I have spent some time with his sister over the last few years, however I'm not going to use that as a platform to talk to you about Aaron.
I'm going to leave that to the people who really knew him , the people who really counted in his life, you, his family and his friends, so despite the obvious difficulty of the situation,
Mr so&so is now going to deliver the eulogy.
And so we meet then, to say goodbye, and to reflect in a simple, private way on Aaron's life,..........so lets now spend a few moments in silence, and you can each remember Aaron in your own special way, and if you do have a religious belief, you might like to use this time for your own private prayer.
The death of someone we dearly love, someone we have shared the best part of our lives with, can sometimes seem like too much to bear, the pain of grief and the sense of loss is immense and often overwhelming.
Aaron had a good and varied life, in the short time we have here today, we can barely scratch the surface, but I hope when you leave here this morning/afternoon that you will do so with a real sense of having shared in something special, for a very special and unique gentleman.
There is life and there is death. They are not opposites. They are complimentary. One gives rise to the other. Without one, the other does not exist. There are no opposites. Opposites are illusions.
No hero without a villain.
No health without disease.
No savior without devil.
No day without night.
The last breath contains within it the first breath.
The first holds the seed of the last.
They are the same. It's a matter of expression.
The first act of life is inhalation. The baby cries and everyone laughs.
The final act of life is exhalation. A woman closes her eyes and everyone cries.
People often cry.
Now is but a moment in time, I dedicate the next few moments to every single precious memory associated with Aaron.
To everything there is a season, and a time to every purpose on earth.
A time to be born and a time to die.
Before we continue, I wonder if there is anyone else here this afternoon who might like to say a few words.
The separateness, the uniqueness of each human life is the basis of our grief in bereavement.
Look through the whole world and there is no one like Aaron, but he still lives on in your memories, and though no longer a visible part of your lives, he will always remain a member of your family and of your circle, through the influence he has had on you and the special part he played in your lives.
Plato in his Symposia wrote about how people are fragmented, and seek their other half in order to become a whole person. I would never suggest that Aaron was not, on his own, whole, yet I know that he wished for “someone to love” in the words of a song posted on his blog. He had someone to love, and I want to try to assure his other half that although there will always be something you will miss, that you can become whole again. The pain becomes manageable. I will not insult you by trying to tell you that one day you will forget. I know as well as you that you will not. But, at least, in time you will not remember as fiercely as you do now.
Hold on to Aaron in your thoughts: there is no need to part from him too hastily, talk about him often, repeat the words and sayings he used, and the jokes he made, and enjoy your memories of him ; just as we have; here today.
Love doesn't die, ever. Not real love. So you don't have to say: "I loved Aaron" you can still say: "I love Aaron"
It's at such times; when we are at our lowest ebb that we need the bosom of our friends and family, we help and support each other, and in time, the veil of mist and numbness gradually disappears, we see a light at the end of the tunnel, we step out, and we look back, thankful that despite their own grief and sorrow, we had someone to lean on; when our own strength failed us.
The catastrophe of death cannot be altered, but it can be transformed by love.
We can share our grief, and I hope you will not feel ashamed or embarrassed to weep openly if this is a help.
I once read " that in every adversity there is the seed of an equal or greater benefit", I have always believed that statement, Aaron was able to show us all this principle in his media life. He left the TV Show Hells Kitchen under the worst possible circumstances, yet he was known to say how much work, pleasure and attention he got from having been on the show, and was a favorite recurring cast member for seasons that followed. His irrepressible personality, sense of humor and pride in his culture was what sustained him.
When someone is taken from us, as Aaron was, in the prime of their life, understandably we are not as comfortable with words and phrases that point towards a celebration of their life.
Immense anger, deep hurt, inconsolable grief, rage, disbelief, these are just a few of the words and feelings that are associated with thoughts of Aaron. But hidden in all the pain and sorrow that we feel, There is undeniably something to celebrate.
We can celebrate the fact that we have known Aaron, though he is no longer with us we can celebrate that we were privileged and honored to have known him.
The catastrophe of death cannot be altered, but it can be transformed by love.
We are here to share our grief, so I hope you will not feel ashamed or embarrassed to weep openly if this is a help.
And perhaps you will feel glad that you took the opportunity to do some of your grieving in the presence of others who have known and loved Aaron. That he was a part of your lives
Death is a very personal matter for those who know it in someone close to them, but we are all concerned, directly or indirectly, with the death of any individual, because we are all members of one human community.
There is a mounting body of information about the experiences dying people have. There is one body of evidence that describes how a dying patient may perceive and speak with loved ones who have already passed over. It would make sense, that if we knew in advance we would be reunited with someone we had lost, we would go to meet them. We don't know for sure, but we hope that when we die we are reunited with our loved ones who have gone before us.
Lets remind ourselves that the dead reside not in the grave or an urn but in the hearts and minds of the living and also that the best of all answers to death is the whole-hearted and continuing affirmation of life.
I would like to read that great message of hope and comfort which was written by Henry Scott Holland for his wife just before he died.
Death is nothing at all,
I have only slipped away into the next room.
Whatever we were to each other, we still are.
Please, call me by my old familiar name.
Speak of me in the same easy way you always did.
Laugh, as we always laughed, at the little jokes we enjoyed together.
Think of me and smile.
Let my name be the household name it always was,
Spoken without the shadow of a ghost in it.
Life means all it ever meant.
It is the same as it ever was.
Death is inevitable, so why should I be out of mind because I am out of sight?
I am but waiting for you, - for an interval very near.
Nothing is past or lost.
One brief moment and all will be as it was before,
Only better and happier.
Together forever. All is well.
Please stand for the committal.
As part of the words of committal, I would like to read a short poem by Leo Marks,
The life that I have,
Is all that I have,
And the life that I have is yours.
The love that I have,
Of the life that I have,
Is yours and yours and yours.
A sleep I shall have,
A rest I shall have,
Yet death will be but a pause.
For the peace of my years
In the long green grass,
Will be yours and yours and yours.
Aaron was born into the restaurant business. Raised in South Central Los Angeles he began cooking at a very young age. Attending Coliseum Street Elementary School he was influenced firstly by the women hired to prepare meals for the family while Rose was starting her fledgling business many miles away. As he entered Audubon Jr. High he began to work at the family restaurant first washing dishes and bussing tables, but soon was cooking dishes for patrons. Upon entering high school the Song family moved to Rancho Palos Verdes, California to be closer to the family restaurant. Aaron has 3 siblings; brother Jason a research scientist at UCLA hospital. Sisters Cheryl who is a dancer and actress and Lisa a clinical psychologist working for Los Angeles County.
Aaron graduated Rolling Hills High School and entered Columbia University majoring in economics after 2 years and as a result of his mothers illness he returned home to California. He enrolled at Loyola Marymount University and graduated with a degree in business administration continuously working at the family restaurant. After graduation he began working for the Linear Corporation first assignment Waupaca WI. as an account manager. After six long months he resigned and returned home to manage the family restaurant. Serving as cook, bartender and waiter he discovered what he wanted. The excitement of a restaurant and the interaction of a bar were too addictive. As Rose’s health declined he assumed management of the family restaurant. Made changes bringing a traditional Chinese restaurant into a fun innovative eatery. Early influences were Wolfgang Puck, Sam Choi and his teacher Roy Yamaguchi. Setting out on his own with his father Louis at the helm of the restaurant Aaron began to work at other restaurants he was inspired by, always learning and perfecting his craft.
In 1987 Aaron returned and remodeled the Tea House Restaurant establishing a new style of Asian food. Bringing different Asian cuisines to people who were unfamiliar with things that weren’t Japanese or Chinese. Some of his dishes were trend setting Cambodian Carpaccio, Vietnamese Spring Rolls, Duck Lettuce Wraps and Ahi Tostadas were just a few signature dishes.
In 1990 he opened China Syndrome in Manhattan Beach, California fusing his Pan Asian cuisine with jazz music. And in 1992 he opened Joey Tai’s in Redondo Beach, bring Thai food to the beach culture both instant success.
In 2001 Aaron relocated the family business to a larger venue seating 300 and hosting a stage and dance floor. Bringing innovative food and entertainment to a very conservative community.
Aaron showed his passion in his food, always cutting edge, but always considerate of his clients. His creativity was seen in his dishes as well as his passions in life music, sports, and always insuring everyone a great experience.
Aaron enjoyed great food, great service, blues music, surfing, racquetball, UCLA and Laker basketball.
Also to try to bring some comfort to those of his family and friends who are here and have been deeply hurt by his sudden death.
Aaron is survived by his sister’s Lisa and Cheryl, and his brother Jason. He will be dearly missed by his partner David.
You are all very welcome, my name is Danny Redmond, and it's a great privilege and honor for me to be here this afternoon to officiate at the funeral of such a well liked and respected gentleman.
Aaron wasn't a particularly religious person, so it's befitting that his funeral ceremony should reflect what he was, ...... a gentle, .....kind, ......loving person; devoted to his family and friends.
Its only natural that we should be sad today, because in a practical sense, Aaron is no longer a part of our lives, "we must die, we know" said a character in Shakespeare, " tis but the time and drawing days out that men stand upon", and so we all come to ponder the life and death of a truly wonderful man; with confused and mixed feelings.
For we have a powerful sense of loss; combined with a recognition that; if death must come, its as well that its not unduly prolonged, we don't want to see someone we love suffer, so this sorrow; and our sense of the fitness of things; don't sit easily together, one purpose of our proceedings here today; is in some way to try to reconcile those feelings.
Today is also a day for memories, today will be remembered for many reasons, but mainly I hope it will be remembered by you all; as a very special day, a special day in which you shared some time with others; in order to pay your last respects; and to say both mentally and physically; a sad and fond farewell to a lovely man/ , ....a man/ whom we were all so very privileged to have known.
Maya Angelou recently wrote;
When I think of death, and of late the idea has come with alarming frequency, I seem at peace with the idea that a day will dawn when I will no longer be among those living in this valley of strange humors.
I can accept the idea of my own demise, but I am unable to accept the death of anyone else. I find it impossible to let a friend or relative go into that country of no return. Disbelief becomes my close companion, and anger often follows in its wake. I answer the heroic question 'Death, where is thy sting?' with ' it is here in my heart and mind and memories.'
We have come together from different places, and we are all at different stages on our journey through life.
Our paths are varied and we look at life in different ways.
But there is one thing we all have in common, at one point or another, and to some degree or other, our lives have touched the life of Aaron.
We are here this afternoon in order to pay our last respects and bid a sad but fond farewell to Aaron, we are here also, so that in our own way we can celebrate, honor and pay tribute to his life, and in doing so we express our sincere love and admiration for him .
And so this afternoon we've put aside our usual daily activities for a while, and gathered here to give expression to the thoughts and feelings that well up in us at this time of loss.
And also because in one-way or another, Aaron's death affects us all.
I know that today is a sad day, but I hope at the end of this farewell ceremony for Aaron, that you will feel glad that took the opportunity to do some of your grieving in the presence of others who have known and loved him.
Our ceremony for Aaron will not be religious as that would be against his wishes and out of keeping with his character, I know there may be those among you who for whom religious faith is a central part of life, and who are more familiar with a different form of service, but I hope we can agree that the human values we all share are of far more lasting importance than those matters that may divide us in this respect.
I never had the privilege of knowing Aaron, but I have spent some time with his sister over the last few years, however I'm not going to use that as a platform to talk to you about Aaron.
I'm going to leave that to the people who really knew him , the people who really counted in his life, you, his family and his friends, so despite the obvious difficulty of the situation,
Mr so&so is now going to deliver the eulogy.
And so we meet then, to say goodbye, and to reflect in a simple, private way on Aaron's life,..........so lets now spend a few moments in silence, and you can each remember Aaron in your own special way, and if you do have a religious belief, you might like to use this time for your own private prayer.
The death of someone we dearly love, someone we have shared the best part of our lives with, can sometimes seem like too much to bear, the pain of grief and the sense of loss is immense and often overwhelming.
Aaron had a good and varied life, in the short time we have here today, we can barely scratch the surface, but I hope when you leave here this morning/afternoon that you will do so with a real sense of having shared in something special, for a very special and unique gentleman.
There is life and there is death. They are not opposites. They are complimentary. One gives rise to the other. Without one, the other does not exist. There are no opposites. Opposites are illusions.
No hero without a villain.
No health without disease.
No savior without devil.
No day without night.
The last breath contains within it the first breath.
The first holds the seed of the last.
They are the same. It's a matter of expression.
The first act of life is inhalation. The baby cries and everyone laughs.
The final act of life is exhalation. A woman closes her eyes and everyone cries.
People often cry.
Now is but a moment in time, I dedicate the next few moments to every single precious memory associated with Aaron.
To everything there is a season, and a time to every purpose on earth.
A time to be born and a time to die.
Before we continue, I wonder if there is anyone else here this afternoon who might like to say a few words.
The separateness, the uniqueness of each human life is the basis of our grief in bereavement.
Look through the whole world and there is no one like Aaron, but he still lives on in your memories, and though no longer a visible part of your lives, he will always remain a member of your family and of your circle, through the influence he has had on you and the special part he played in your lives.
Plato in his Symposia wrote about how people are fragmented, and seek their other half in order to become a whole person. I would never suggest that Aaron was not, on his own, whole, yet I know that he wished for “someone to love” in the words of a song posted on his blog. He had someone to love, and I want to try to assure his other half that although there will always be something you will miss, that you can become whole again. The pain becomes manageable. I will not insult you by trying to tell you that one day you will forget. I know as well as you that you will not. But, at least, in time you will not remember as fiercely as you do now.
Hold on to Aaron in your thoughts: there is no need to part from him too hastily, talk about him often, repeat the words and sayings he used, and the jokes he made, and enjoy your memories of him ; just as we have; here today.
Love doesn't die, ever. Not real love. So you don't have to say: "I loved Aaron" you can still say: "I love Aaron"
It's at such times; when we are at our lowest ebb that we need the bosom of our friends and family, we help and support each other, and in time, the veil of mist and numbness gradually disappears, we see a light at the end of the tunnel, we step out, and we look back, thankful that despite their own grief and sorrow, we had someone to lean on; when our own strength failed us.
The catastrophe of death cannot be altered, but it can be transformed by love.
We can share our grief, and I hope you will not feel ashamed or embarrassed to weep openly if this is a help.
I once read " that in every adversity there is the seed of an equal or greater benefit", I have always believed that statement, Aaron was able to show us all this principle in his media life. He left the TV Show Hells Kitchen under the worst possible circumstances, yet he was known to say how much work, pleasure and attention he got from having been on the show, and was a favorite recurring cast member for seasons that followed. His irrepressible personality, sense of humor and pride in his culture was what sustained him.
When someone is taken from us, as Aaron was, in the prime of their life, understandably we are not as comfortable with words and phrases that point towards a celebration of their life.
Immense anger, deep hurt, inconsolable grief, rage, disbelief, these are just a few of the words and feelings that are associated with thoughts of Aaron. But hidden in all the pain and sorrow that we feel, There is undeniably something to celebrate.
We can celebrate the fact that we have known Aaron, though he is no longer with us we can celebrate that we were privileged and honored to have known him.
The catastrophe of death cannot be altered, but it can be transformed by love.
We are here to share our grief, so I hope you will not feel ashamed or embarrassed to weep openly if this is a help.
And perhaps you will feel glad that you took the opportunity to do some of your grieving in the presence of others who have known and loved Aaron. That he was a part of your lives
Death is a very personal matter for those who know it in someone close to them, but we are all concerned, directly or indirectly, with the death of any individual, because we are all members of one human community.
There is a mounting body of information about the experiences dying people have. There is one body of evidence that describes how a dying patient may perceive and speak with loved ones who have already passed over. It would make sense, that if we knew in advance we would be reunited with someone we had lost, we would go to meet them. We don't know for sure, but we hope that when we die we are reunited with our loved ones who have gone before us.
Lets remind ourselves that the dead reside not in the grave or an urn but in the hearts and minds of the living and also that the best of all answers to death is the whole-hearted and continuing affirmation of life.
I would like to read that great message of hope and comfort which was written by Henry Scott Holland for his wife just before he died.
Death is nothing at all,
I have only slipped away into the next room.
Whatever we were to each other, we still are.
Please, call me by my old familiar name.
Speak of me in the same easy way you always did.
Laugh, as we always laughed, at the little jokes we enjoyed together.
Think of me and smile.
Let my name be the household name it always was,
Spoken without the shadow of a ghost in it.
Life means all it ever meant.
It is the same as it ever was.
Death is inevitable, so why should I be out of mind because I am out of sight?
I am but waiting for you, - for an interval very near.
Nothing is past or lost.
One brief moment and all will be as it was before,
Only better and happier.
Together forever. All is well.
Please stand for the committal.
As part of the words of committal, I would like to read a short poem by Leo Marks,
The life that I have,
Is all that I have,
And the life that I have is yours.
The love that I have,
Of the life that I have,
Is yours and yours and yours.
A sleep I shall have,
A rest I shall have,
Yet death will be but a pause.
For the peace of my years
In the long green grass,
Will be yours and yours and yours.
Aaron was born into the restaurant business. Raised in South Central Los Angeles he began cooking at a very young age. Attending Coliseum Street Elementary School he was influenced firstly by the women hired to prepare meals for the family while Rose was starting her fledgling business many miles away. As he entered Audubon Jr. High he began to work at the family restaurant first washing dishes and bussing tables, but soon was cooking dishes for patrons. Upon entering high school the Song family moved to Rancho Palos Verdes, California to be closer to the family restaurant. Aaron has 3 siblings; brother Jason a research scientist at UCLA hospital. Sisters Cheryl who is a dancer and actress and Lisa a clinical psychologist working for Los Angeles County.
Aaron graduated Rolling Hills High School and entered Columbia University majoring in economics after 2 years and as a result of his mothers illness he returned home to California. He enrolled at Loyola Marymount University and graduated with a degree in business administration continuously working at the family restaurant. After graduation he began working for the Linear Corporation first assignment Waupaca WI. as an account manager. After six long months he resigned and returned home to manage the family restaurant. Serving as cook, bartender and waiter he discovered what he wanted. The excitement of a restaurant and the interaction of a bar were too addictive. As Rose’s health declined he assumed management of the family restaurant. Made changes bringing a traditional Chinese restaurant into a fun innovative eatery. Early influences were Wolfgang Puck, Sam Choi and his teacher Roy Yamaguchi. Setting out on his own with his father Louis at the helm of the restaurant Aaron began to work at other restaurants he was inspired by, always learning and perfecting his craft.
In 1987 Aaron returned and remodeled the Tea House Restaurant establishing a new style of Asian food. Bringing different Asian cuisines to people who were unfamiliar with things that weren’t Japanese or Chinese. Some of his dishes were trend setting Cambodian Carpaccio, Vietnamese Spring Rolls, Duck Lettuce Wraps and Ahi Tostadas were just a few signature dishes.
In 1990 he opened China Syndrome in Manhattan Beach, California fusing his Pan Asian cuisine with jazz music. And in 1992 he opened Joey Tai’s in Redondo Beach, bring Thai food to the beach culture both instant success.
In 2001 Aaron relocated the family business to a larger venue seating 300 and hosting a stage and dance floor. Bringing innovative food and entertainment to a very conservative community.
Aaron showed his passion in his food, always cutting edge, but always considerate of his clients. His creativity was seen in his dishes as well as his passions in life music, sports, and always insuring everyone a great experience.
Aaron enjoyed great food, great service, blues music, surfing, racquetball, UCLA and Laker basketball.
Sunday, March 07, 2010
Processional
(Cracklin’ Rosie- Neil Diamond)
Welcome
On behalf of Ron and Kelly, welcome.
Giving of Bride
Who brings Kelly here today, and gives their blessing to this union?
Seating
(Skip the “If there is any reason why these two should not be joined…”)
Charge – “we are at this wonderful winery today to see Ron and Kelly exchange vows and join their lives together. Wine was so important in the ancient world that it deserved it’s own god. The wine is more than an accent; it is a theme and symbol of the relationship we are here to celebrate. Wine isn’t simply bottled, it is made.
First the necessary elements must be brought together. Soil and sunlight, moisture and seed. Then seasons of hard work must be applied. The vine must be nurtured and shaped. The fruit has to be harvested and the juice taken. It has to be contained and aged until it is ready. Only then can the most auspicious blend be created.
Marriage is the much the same process. Choices must be made. Blending of two personalities requires work and talent. When all the elements combine, the result transcends the combination. Two lives become one.
This couple will now take this wine and share it, to demonstrate that their two lives have reached the stage where they can be shared, and they transcend two individuals to become… a marriage.
I hand a glass of wine to the groom, he sips and hands it to the bride. She sips and returns the glass to me.
Rose ceremony (A red rose symbolizes romantic love, a white rose may symbolize familial love. Kelly & Ron will give these roses to their family to thank them, and show that they are not leaving their families behind, but joining them together in a greater circle of love.
Vows
Do you have vows to exchange?
Rings
Do you have gifts to exchange?
I bless these rings and name their significance to be the unending circle of respect, affection and support which marriage embodies.”
With this ring, I thee wed…
Sand( to include the kids- each of the members of this new family will pour sand from his own vessel, into the larger vessel to make a permanent keepsake from the most transient. The different patterns will remind them that each person has a time to stand out, and each has time to support the others, that together, they combine to create beauty. / Candle (yada yada light the candle)/ Handfasting ( With your vows and your rings you have bound yourself to your partner. To signify this, I will bind your hands together with this tie, so that you will always remember this day, and this, the tie that binds.)
Recessional
(Red Red Wine- UB40)
(Cracklin’ Rosie- Neil Diamond)
Welcome
On behalf of Ron and Kelly, welcome.
Giving of Bride
Who brings Kelly here today, and gives their blessing to this union?
Seating
(Skip the “If there is any reason why these two should not be joined…”)
Charge – “we are at this wonderful winery today to see Ron and Kelly exchange vows and join their lives together. Wine was so important in the ancient world that it deserved it’s own god. The wine is more than an accent; it is a theme and symbol of the relationship we are here to celebrate. Wine isn’t simply bottled, it is made.
First the necessary elements must be brought together. Soil and sunlight, moisture and seed. Then seasons of hard work must be applied. The vine must be nurtured and shaped. The fruit has to be harvested and the juice taken. It has to be contained and aged until it is ready. Only then can the most auspicious blend be created.
Marriage is the much the same process. Choices must be made. Blending of two personalities requires work and talent. When all the elements combine, the result transcends the combination. Two lives become one.
This couple will now take this wine and share it, to demonstrate that their two lives have reached the stage where they can be shared, and they transcend two individuals to become… a marriage.
I hand a glass of wine to the groom, he sips and hands it to the bride. She sips and returns the glass to me.
Rose ceremony (A red rose symbolizes romantic love, a white rose may symbolize familial love. Kelly & Ron will give these roses to their family to thank them, and show that they are not leaving their families behind, but joining them together in a greater circle of love.
Vows
Do you have vows to exchange?
Rings
Do you have gifts to exchange?
I bless these rings and name their significance to be the unending circle of respect, affection and support which marriage embodies.”
With this ring, I thee wed…
Sand( to include the kids- each of the members of this new family will pour sand from his own vessel, into the larger vessel to make a permanent keepsake from the most transient. The different patterns will remind them that each person has a time to stand out, and each has time to support the others, that together, they combine to create beauty. / Candle (yada yada light the candle)/ Handfasting ( With your vows and your rings you have bound yourself to your partner. To signify this, I will bind your hands together with this tie, so that you will always remember this day, and this, the tie that binds.)
Recessional
(Red Red Wine- UB40)
Tuesday, September 01, 2009
Well Congratulations and Best Wishes in Vermont!
Starting today, same sex couples have the right to marry there as well as Massachusetts, Connecticut and Iowa. New Hampshire will go in 2010.
Too bad we're so behind times here in Sunny California. Maybe Obama will rescind DOMA and the phrase "Equal Rights" will apply to US Citizens in their own country.
Starting today, same sex couples have the right to marry there as well as Massachusetts, Connecticut and Iowa. New Hampshire will go in 2010.
Too bad we're so behind times here in Sunny California. Maybe Obama will rescind DOMA and the phrase "Equal Rights" will apply to US Citizens in their own country.
Friday, July 31, 2009
I just realized half the year has passed without a new post. It's not that I haven't done any new weddings, just nothing so unique as to get posted. I did another one at the City Club recently that included a sand ceremony. I wrote a nice piece about the sand symbolizing each partner standing out at different times. Individuals in partnership was the theme. It was not really successful. I had looked all over to find sands that would complement the decor in the couples' living room. I literally shopped for sand for weeks. Then the vessel. It was a last minute substitution of vessel that fouled me up. I couldn't seem to coil the parchment that I use to funnel the sand correctly and it kept blocking up and not filling the bottle. It was a good thing we had planned to have a song play over the time we were pouring the sand because it took about four minutes to get it done. I was again impressed with how beautiful the City Club on Bunker Hill is at sunset. 54 stories over downtown LA with a 300 degree view. It's the coolest place I have ever officiated. (Except maybe on the cliffside at Big Sur.)If you are looking at this blog to consider me for your wedding, let's remember this: rehearse all parts of the ceremony, with props! And that in every wedding, the unexpected will happen. I will lead us all through, but know that there is always at least one bump.
Wednesday, December 03, 2008
From Plato's Symposium
Humans have never understood the power of Love, for if they had they would surely have built noble temples and altars and offered solemn sacrifices; but this is not done, and most certainly ought to be done, since Love is our best friend, our helper, and the healer of the ills which prevent us from being happy.
To understand the power of Love, we must understand that our original human nature was not like it is now, but different. Human beings each had two sets of arms, two sets of legs, and two faces looking in opposite directions. There were three sexes then: one comprised of two men called the children of the Sun, one made of two women called the children of the Earth, and a third made of a man and a woman, called the children of the Moon. Due to the power and might of these original humans, the Gods began to fear that their reign might be threatened. They sought for a way to end the humans’ insolence without destroying them.
It was at this point that Zeus divided the humans in half. After the division the two parts of each desiring their other half, came together, and throwing their arms about one another, entwined in mutual embraces, longing to grow into one. So ancient is the desire of one another which is implanted in us, reuniting our original nature, making one of two, and healing the state of humankind.
Each of us when separated, having one side only, is but the indenture of a person, and we are always looking for our other half. Those whose original nature lies with the children of the Sun are men who are drawn to other men, those from the children of the Earth are women who love other women, and those from the children of the Moon are men and women drawn to one another. And when one of us meets our other half, we are lost in an amazement of love and friendship and intimacy, and would not be out of the other’s sight even for a moment. We pass our whole lives together, desiring that we should be melted into one, to spend our lives as one person instead of two, and so that after our death there will be one departed soul instead of two; this is the very expression of our ancient need. And the reason is that human nature was originally one and we were a whole, and the desire and pursuit of the whole is called Love.
Humans have never understood the power of Love, for if they had they would surely have built noble temples and altars and offered solemn sacrifices; but this is not done, and most certainly ought to be done, since Love is our best friend, our helper, and the healer of the ills which prevent us from being happy.
To understand the power of Love, we must understand that our original human nature was not like it is now, but different. Human beings each had two sets of arms, two sets of legs, and two faces looking in opposite directions. There were three sexes then: one comprised of two men called the children of the Sun, one made of two women called the children of the Earth, and a third made of a man and a woman, called the children of the Moon. Due to the power and might of these original humans, the Gods began to fear that their reign might be threatened. They sought for a way to end the humans’ insolence without destroying them.
It was at this point that Zeus divided the humans in half. After the division the two parts of each desiring their other half, came together, and throwing their arms about one another, entwined in mutual embraces, longing to grow into one. So ancient is the desire of one another which is implanted in us, reuniting our original nature, making one of two, and healing the state of humankind.
Each of us when separated, having one side only, is but the indenture of a person, and we are always looking for our other half. Those whose original nature lies with the children of the Sun are men who are drawn to other men, those from the children of the Earth are women who love other women, and those from the children of the Moon are men and women drawn to one another. And when one of us meets our other half, we are lost in an amazement of love and friendship and intimacy, and would not be out of the other’s sight even for a moment. We pass our whole lives together, desiring that we should be melted into one, to spend our lives as one person instead of two, and so that after our death there will be one departed soul instead of two; this is the very expression of our ancient need. And the reason is that human nature was originally one and we were a whole, and the desire and pursuit of the whole is called Love.
Friday, August 08, 2008
Ray & Jeff
August 8, 2008
On behalf of Jeff and Ray, welcome and thank you for being here.
By your presence, you celebrate with them the love they have discovered in each other and you support their decision to commit themselves to one another for the rest of their lives. The greatest happiness of life is the conviction that we are loved, loved for ourselves. If there is anything better than being loved, it is loving.
As many of you know, Jeff and Ray come to this marriage with history. They come with the advantage of 18 years of partnership.
This is the advantage of a love that grows over time, Of love that builds on recognition, and inclusion, on work, and on playfulness.
They have built intimacy on a foundation of knowledge and experience in addition to hope, and expectation.
Ray and Jeff share affection based on familiarity and passion discovered not in the superficial features we present in the beginning of relationships, but in the deep aspects of character we disclose over years of trust, of caring and of accepting what is found in the other.
This is a partnership of proven stability in a public and open relationship in business, politics and social activism.
And, now they ask you all to witness as their two lives become one in a new way.
Do you, the families and friends of Jeff and Ray give them your blessing and support this day, wishing them a wonderful life together? (Answer: "We do")
Jeff, do you wish to marry Ray here today?
Ray, Do you wish to marry Jeff here today?
It is the custom at this time to instruct the couple on the nature of marriage. I would like to read a quote from Massachusetts Supreme Court Chief Justice Margaret H. Marshall
Marriage is a vital social institution. The exclusive commitment of two individuals to each other nurtures love and mutual support; it brings stability to our society. For those who choose to marry, and for their children, marriage provides an abundance of legal, financial, and social benefits. In return it imposes weighty legal, financial, and social obligations....Without question, marriage enhances the "welfare of the community." It is a "social institution of the highest importance." ... Marriage also bestows enormous private and social advantages on those who choose to marry. Marriage is at once a deeply personal commitment to another human being and a highly public celebration of the ideals of mutuality, companionship, intimacy, fidelity, and family.... Because it fulfils yearnings for security, safe haven, and connection that express our common humanity, marriage is an esteemed institution, and the decision whether and whom to marry is among life's momentous acts of self-definition.
We are at a unique point in history, when any couple who wish to publicly declare their love may marry in the eyes of this state. This ceremony is not only a celebration of the life long love between these two men, but also a celebration of freedom for everyone, freedom to live their life freely, honestly and openly in a diverse society.
I ask the partners to share their vows: WE WILL READ THEM
Will you exchange rings?
(each hands me the ring for his partner, or an attendant hands both)
On behalf of the friends and families of Ray and Jeff, I bless these rings and name their significance to be the unending circle of affection, respect and support which marriage embodies.
Jeff: Place the ring on your partners finger and repeat, with this ring I thee wed.
Ray: Place the ring on your partners finger and repeat, with this ring I thee wed.
The Bargain" by Sir Philip Sidney'
My true love hath my heart, and I have his, By just exchange one for another given: I hold his dear, and mine he cannot miss, There never was a better bargain driven: My true love hath my heart, and I have his. His heart in me keeps him and me in one, My heart in him his thoughts and senses guides: He loves my heart, for once it was his own, I cherish his because in me it bides: My true love hath my heart, and I have his.
As you have given your vows, your rings and your hearts to each other here today, by the power vested in me by the State of California, I am pleased to pronounce you legally married, for so long as you both shall live.
A new thing cannot be created without an end to that which preexisted. Growth and transformation begin with destruction. Many traditions observe this aspect of nature. In the Jewish tradition the shattering of a glass has been attributed to the destruction of the temple, or as a warning on the fragility of relationships, or even to the scaring away of negative spirits. Ray and Jeff will break glasses tonight for all these reasons as well as to note that they are breaking new ground by this very occasion. When their glasses break, please join me in wishing them luck with the Hebrew phrase Mazel Tov!
Blessing the wine
Breaking the glasses
In a moment I am going to ask you to kiss your partner. You have kissed thousands of times, but this kiss will be different. This kiss is your first married kiss. It is a promise to your partner. A promise to work everyday to preserve the love you have offered and accepted here today. Please kiss your partner.
It is with pleasure and pride that I now introduce, (The married couple,
August 8, 2008
On behalf of Jeff and Ray, welcome and thank you for being here.
By your presence, you celebrate with them the love they have discovered in each other and you support their decision to commit themselves to one another for the rest of their lives. The greatest happiness of life is the conviction that we are loved, loved for ourselves. If there is anything better than being loved, it is loving.
As many of you know, Jeff and Ray come to this marriage with history. They come with the advantage of 18 years of partnership.
This is the advantage of a love that grows over time, Of love that builds on recognition, and inclusion, on work, and on playfulness.
They have built intimacy on a foundation of knowledge and experience in addition to hope, and expectation.
Ray and Jeff share affection based on familiarity and passion discovered not in the superficial features we present in the beginning of relationships, but in the deep aspects of character we disclose over years of trust, of caring and of accepting what is found in the other.
This is a partnership of proven stability in a public and open relationship in business, politics and social activism.
And, now they ask you all to witness as their two lives become one in a new way.
Do you, the families and friends of Jeff and Ray give them your blessing and support this day, wishing them a wonderful life together? (Answer: "We do")
Jeff, do you wish to marry Ray here today?
Ray, Do you wish to marry Jeff here today?
It is the custom at this time to instruct the couple on the nature of marriage. I would like to read a quote from Massachusetts Supreme Court Chief Justice Margaret H. Marshall
Marriage is a vital social institution. The exclusive commitment of two individuals to each other nurtures love and mutual support; it brings stability to our society. For those who choose to marry, and for their children, marriage provides an abundance of legal, financial, and social benefits. In return it imposes weighty legal, financial, and social obligations....Without question, marriage enhances the "welfare of the community." It is a "social institution of the highest importance." ... Marriage also bestows enormous private and social advantages on those who choose to marry. Marriage is at once a deeply personal commitment to another human being and a highly public celebration of the ideals of mutuality, companionship, intimacy, fidelity, and family.... Because it fulfils yearnings for security, safe haven, and connection that express our common humanity, marriage is an esteemed institution, and the decision whether and whom to marry is among life's momentous acts of self-definition.
We are at a unique point in history, when any couple who wish to publicly declare their love may marry in the eyes of this state. This ceremony is not only a celebration of the life long love between these two men, but also a celebration of freedom for everyone, freedom to live their life freely, honestly and openly in a diverse society.
I ask the partners to share their vows: WE WILL READ THEM
Will you exchange rings?
(each hands me the ring for his partner, or an attendant hands both)
On behalf of the friends and families of Ray and Jeff, I bless these rings and name their significance to be the unending circle of affection, respect and support which marriage embodies.
Jeff: Place the ring on your partners finger and repeat, with this ring I thee wed.
Ray: Place the ring on your partners finger and repeat, with this ring I thee wed.
The Bargain" by Sir Philip Sidney'
My true love hath my heart, and I have his, By just exchange one for another given: I hold his dear, and mine he cannot miss, There never was a better bargain driven: My true love hath my heart, and I have his. His heart in me keeps him and me in one, My heart in him his thoughts and senses guides: He loves my heart, for once it was his own, I cherish his because in me it bides: My true love hath my heart, and I have his.
As you have given your vows, your rings and your hearts to each other here today, by the power vested in me by the State of California, I am pleased to pronounce you legally married, for so long as you both shall live.
A new thing cannot be created without an end to that which preexisted. Growth and transformation begin with destruction. Many traditions observe this aspect of nature. In the Jewish tradition the shattering of a glass has been attributed to the destruction of the temple, or as a warning on the fragility of relationships, or even to the scaring away of negative spirits. Ray and Jeff will break glasses tonight for all these reasons as well as to note that they are breaking new ground by this very occasion. When their glasses break, please join me in wishing them luck with the Hebrew phrase Mazel Tov!
Blessing the wine
Breaking the glasses
In a moment I am going to ask you to kiss your partner. You have kissed thousands of times, but this kiss will be different. This kiss is your first married kiss. It is a promise to your partner. A promise to work everyday to preserve the love you have offered and accepted here today. Please kiss your partner.
It is with pleasure and pride that I now introduce, (The married couple,
Partner A & Partner B
This was a confidentail wedding, not available to public review here in California. It was the first same sex ceremony I performed that was a legal marriage.
DR: As many of you know, Partner B and Partner A come to this marriage with history. They come with the advantage of decades of partnership.
This is the advantage of a love that grows over time, Of love that builds on recognition, and inclusion, on work, and on playfulness.
They have built intimacy on a foundation of knowledge and experience in addition to hope, and expectation.
Partner A and Partner B share affection based on familiarity and passion discovered not in the superficial features we present in the beginning of relationships, but in the deep aspects of character we disclose over years of trust, of caring and of accepting what is found in the other.
And, now they ask you all to witness as their two lives become one.
We are at a unique point in history, when any couple who wish to publicly declare their love may marry in the eyes of the state. This ceremony is not only a celebration of the life long love between these two men, but also a celebration of freedom for everyone, freedom to live their life freely, honestly and openly in a diverse society.
Is there any lawful reason why these two should not be joined in marriage here today?
PK:
Marriage is a vital social institution. The exclusive commitment of two individuals to each other nurtures love and mutual support; it brings stability to our society. For those who choose to marry, and for their children, marriage provides an abundance of legal, financial, and social benefits. In return it imposes weighty legal, financial, and social obligations....Without question, marriage enhances the "welfare of the community." It is a "social institution of the highest importance." ... Marriage also bestows enormous private and social advantages on those who choose to marry. Marriage is at once a deeply personal commitment to another human being and a highly public celebration of the ideals of mutuality, companionship, intimacy, fidelity, and family.... Because it fulfils yearnings for security, safe haven, and connection that express our common humanity, marriage is an esteemed institution, and the decision whether and whom to marry is among life's momentous acts of self-definition.
DR: Partner B; do you wish to marry Partner A here today?
Partner B : I do.
PK: Partner A; Do you wish to marry Partner B here today?
Peter: I do.
VOWS:
PK: You were born together, and together you shall be forevermore. You shall be together when the white wings of death scatter your days. Ay, you shall be together even in the silent memory of God. But let there be spaces in your togetherness, And let the winds of heavens dance between you. Love one another, but make not a bond of love: Let it rather be a moving sea between the shores of your souls. Fill each other's cup but drink not from one cup. Give one another of your bread but eat not from the same loaf. Sing and dance together and be joyous, but let each one of you be alone, Even as the strings of a lute are alone though they quiver with the same music. Give your hearts, but not into each other's keeping. For only the hand of Life can contain your hearts. And stand together yet not too near together: For the pillars of the temple stand apart, And the oak tree and the cypress grow not in each other's shadow.
DR: Will you exchange rings?
The partners hand each other rings.
PK: Partner B Place this ring on Partner As finger and repeat after me, … with this ring I thee wed.
DR: Partner A, Place this ring on Partner B’s finger and repeat after me, … with this ring I thee wed.
PK: With that, I pronounce you to be married for as long as you both shall live.
DR: In a moment I am going to ask you to kiss your partner. You have kissed thousands of times, but this kiss will be different. This kiss is your first married kiss. It is a promise to your partner. A promise to work everyday to preserve the love you have offered and accepted here today. Please kiss your partner.
PK: It is with pleasure we introduce,
DR: Uh, Partner A and Partner B?!
Recession
This was a confidentail wedding, not available to public review here in California. It was the first same sex ceremony I performed that was a legal marriage.
DR: As many of you know, Partner B and Partner A come to this marriage with history. They come with the advantage of decades of partnership.
This is the advantage of a love that grows over time, Of love that builds on recognition, and inclusion, on work, and on playfulness.
They have built intimacy on a foundation of knowledge and experience in addition to hope, and expectation.
Partner A and Partner B share affection based on familiarity and passion discovered not in the superficial features we present in the beginning of relationships, but in the deep aspects of character we disclose over years of trust, of caring and of accepting what is found in the other.
And, now they ask you all to witness as their two lives become one.
We are at a unique point in history, when any couple who wish to publicly declare their love may marry in the eyes of the state. This ceremony is not only a celebration of the life long love between these two men, but also a celebration of freedom for everyone, freedom to live their life freely, honestly and openly in a diverse society.
Is there any lawful reason why these two should not be joined in marriage here today?
PK:
Marriage is a vital social institution. The exclusive commitment of two individuals to each other nurtures love and mutual support; it brings stability to our society. For those who choose to marry, and for their children, marriage provides an abundance of legal, financial, and social benefits. In return it imposes weighty legal, financial, and social obligations....Without question, marriage enhances the "welfare of the community." It is a "social institution of the highest importance." ... Marriage also bestows enormous private and social advantages on those who choose to marry. Marriage is at once a deeply personal commitment to another human being and a highly public celebration of the ideals of mutuality, companionship, intimacy, fidelity, and family.... Because it fulfils yearnings for security, safe haven, and connection that express our common humanity, marriage is an esteemed institution, and the decision whether and whom to marry is among life's momentous acts of self-definition.
DR: Partner B; do you wish to marry Partner A here today?
Partner B : I do.
PK: Partner A; Do you wish to marry Partner B here today?
Peter: I do.
VOWS:
PK: You were born together, and together you shall be forevermore. You shall be together when the white wings of death scatter your days. Ay, you shall be together even in the silent memory of God. But let there be spaces in your togetherness, And let the winds of heavens dance between you. Love one another, but make not a bond of love: Let it rather be a moving sea between the shores of your souls. Fill each other's cup but drink not from one cup. Give one another of your bread but eat not from the same loaf. Sing and dance together and be joyous, but let each one of you be alone, Even as the strings of a lute are alone though they quiver with the same music. Give your hearts, but not into each other's keeping. For only the hand of Life can contain your hearts. And stand together yet not too near together: For the pillars of the temple stand apart, And the oak tree and the cypress grow not in each other's shadow.
DR: Will you exchange rings?
The partners hand each other rings.
PK: Partner B Place this ring on Partner As finger and repeat after me, … with this ring I thee wed.
DR: Partner A, Place this ring on Partner B’s finger and repeat after me, … with this ring I thee wed.
PK: With that, I pronounce you to be married for as long as you both shall live.
DR: In a moment I am going to ask you to kiss your partner. You have kissed thousands of times, but this kiss will be different. This kiss is your first married kiss. It is a promise to your partner. A promise to work everyday to preserve the love you have offered and accepted here today. Please kiss your partner.
PK: It is with pleasure we introduce,
DR: Uh, Partner A and Partner B?!
Recession
This very brief ceremony is more religious than most weddings I've celbrated.
Danny, John and Don enter,
Johnny enters
Dana and Amanda enter, each carries one white rose
Laura enters
Annie enters escorted by David
Who brings Annie here today and gives blessing to this marriage?
David “ Her mother and I do.”
Please be seated
Annie hands bouquet to Laura
Marriage is a union of two lives, making of the two, one life together. I am honored to be included in this ceremony. I ask of the friends and family gathered here today ‘Is there any lawful reason why these two should not be joined together in Marriage?”
In Chapter 6 of GENESIS, Adam observes “A man shall leave his father and his mother and he shall cleave unto his wife.” Adam spoke here as a prophet, with direct experience of the nature of a man, of the design God has written in our blood.
Proverbs tells us “Trust in the Lord with all your heart,and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him,and he will make straight your paths.”
Thoughtful of these passages, and having found no reason why you should not be married, I ask Annie, Do you wish to marry John today?”
ANNIE “Yes”
DANNY” John, do you wish to marry Annie today?”
JOHN “Yes”
A rose symbolizes love. As a red rose means romantic love, a white rose means familial love. Annie and John would like to present a white rose to their mothers at this time to signify that they do not leave their families behind, but join them together in a larger circle, Drawing on the love of their families as they build a new family together.
John & Annie take a rose from Amanda & Dana and carry them to their Mothers.
“John and Annie: do you have gifts to exchange?”
Don hands the rings to Danny
On behalf of the family and friends of Annie and John, I bless these rings, and name their significance to be the unending circle of affection, respect and support which marriage embodies.
‘John, place this ring on Annie’s finger and repeat: “With this ring I thee wed.”
‘Annie, place this ring on John’s finger and repeat, “With this ring I thee wed.”
“ Let us pray together…As this community is brought to understand God through Jesus Christ and to ask for God’s blessings and to give thanks in His name, we ask for His love to include and support love within this marriage, and to warm them when they grow cold, and to strengthen them when they weaken, and to nourish them when they hunger. And we give thanks that they have found each other and found love in each other and have promised to preserve that love before us all.” AMEN
By the power vested in me by the State of California and the church, I hereby pronounce you to be lawfully wed, and to be husband and wife for as long as you both shall live.
You may kiss the bride.
It is with pleasure and pride I introduce for the first time, Mr. And Mrs. John Tucker
Danny, John and Don enter,
Johnny enters
Dana and Amanda enter, each carries one white rose
Laura enters
Annie enters escorted by David
Who brings Annie here today and gives blessing to this marriage?
David “ Her mother and I do.”
Please be seated
Annie hands bouquet to Laura
Marriage is a union of two lives, making of the two, one life together. I am honored to be included in this ceremony. I ask of the friends and family gathered here today ‘Is there any lawful reason why these two should not be joined together in Marriage?”
In Chapter 6 of GENESIS, Adam observes “A man shall leave his father and his mother and he shall cleave unto his wife.” Adam spoke here as a prophet, with direct experience of the nature of a man, of the design God has written in our blood.
Proverbs tells us “Trust in the Lord with all your heart,and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him,and he will make straight your paths.”
Thoughtful of these passages, and having found no reason why you should not be married, I ask Annie, Do you wish to marry John today?”
ANNIE “Yes”
DANNY” John, do you wish to marry Annie today?”
JOHN “Yes”
A rose symbolizes love. As a red rose means romantic love, a white rose means familial love. Annie and John would like to present a white rose to their mothers at this time to signify that they do not leave their families behind, but join them together in a larger circle, Drawing on the love of their families as they build a new family together.
John & Annie take a rose from Amanda & Dana and carry them to their Mothers.
“John and Annie: do you have gifts to exchange?”
Don hands the rings to Danny
On behalf of the family and friends of Annie and John, I bless these rings, and name their significance to be the unending circle of affection, respect and support which marriage embodies.
‘John, place this ring on Annie’s finger and repeat: “With this ring I thee wed.”
‘Annie, place this ring on John’s finger and repeat, “With this ring I thee wed.”
“ Let us pray together…As this community is brought to understand God through Jesus Christ and to ask for God’s blessings and to give thanks in His name, we ask for His love to include and support love within this marriage, and to warm them when they grow cold, and to strengthen them when they weaken, and to nourish them when they hunger. And we give thanks that they have found each other and found love in each other and have promised to preserve that love before us all.” AMEN
By the power vested in me by the State of California and the church, I hereby pronounce you to be lawfully wed, and to be husband and wife for as long as you both shall live.
You may kiss the bride.
It is with pleasure and pride I introduce for the first time, Mr. And Mrs. John Tucker
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