Civil Ceremony - 5

Minister:
It is one of life's richest surprises when the accidental meeting of two life paths lead them to proceed together along the common path as husband and wife. It is one of life's finest experiences when a casual relationship grows into a permanent bond of love. This meeting and this growth bring us together today.

____________ and _____________, will you take vows here before all of us which symbolize the manifested vows you have already made and will continue to make to each other throughout your lives?

Bride and Groom:
We will.

Bride:
I, ____________, take you, ____________, as my friend and love, beside me and apart from me, in laughter and in tears, in conflict and tranquillity, asking that you be no other than yourself, loving what I know of you, trusting what I do not yet know, in all the ways that life may find us.

Groom:
I, ____________, take you, ____________, as my friend and love, beside me and apart from me, in laughter and in tears, in conflict and tranquillity, asking that you be no other than yourself, loving what I know of you, trusting what I do not yet know, in all the ways that life may find us.

Minister:
The circle is the symbol of the sun, earth, and universe. It is the symbol of peace. Let this ring be the symbol of unity and peace in which your two lives are joined in one unbroken circle. Wherever you go, return unto one another and to your togetherness.

Groom places ring on Bride’s finger:
I give you this ring to wear upon your hand as a symbol of our unity in steadfast love.

Bride places ring on Groom’s finger:
I give you this ring to wear upon your hand as a symbol of our unity in steadfast love.

Minister:
You are mature people who have established individual patterns of living. Yet you have found not only a need for companionship, but the satisfaction of that need in each other's company. It is this love, based upon a responsible understanding, that will aid you in creating out of your two lives, a marriage and a happiness you will share together. Stand fast in hope and confidence, believing in yourself and believing in each other.

Inasmuch as you two have come before your friends and family and have declared your love and devotion to each other, I now greet you with them as husband and wife.