Wedding Speech by Priest

1. Opening Blessing and Welcome

• Begin with a warm greeting to the congregation and a blessing.
• Acknowledge the sacredness of the occasion.

Example:
“Dearly beloved, we are gathered here today in the sight of God, and in the presence of these witnesses, to join together [Bride’s Name] and [Groom’s Name] in holy matrimony. This is a sacred covenant, ordained by God, and a joyful celebration of their love.”

2. Reflection on Marriage and Faith

• Share the spiritual significance of marriage.
• Reference scripture or teachings about love, unity, and commitment.

Example:
“Marriage is a divine gift, a reflection of God’s love for us. As it is written in 1 Corinthians 13:4-7: ‘Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.’ Today, [Bride’s Name] and [Groom’s Name] commit to embodying this love in their life together.”

3. Acknowledgment of the Couple

• Speak about the couple’s journey of faith and love.
• Highlight the ways they exemplify the values of a strong Christian marriage.

Example:
“[Bride’s Name] and [Groom’s Name], your love for one another is a testament to God’s grace and goodness. You have built your relationship on a foundation of trust, respect, and faith. Today, you invite God into your union, and with His guidance, you will grow even stronger together.”

4. The Vows

• Transition to the exchange of vows, emphasizing their importance as a covenant before God.

Example:
“Now, [Bride’s Name] and [Groom’s Name], as you stand before God and these witnesses, I invite you to declare your vows to one another. These promises are sacred, a reflection of your commitment to honor, cherish, and love one another for all your days.”
(Guide the couple as they exchange vows.)

5. The Rings

• Bless the rings and explain their spiritual significance.

Example:
“The wedding rings you are about to exchange are a symbol of eternity, a reminder of the unbroken bond you share. May these rings always remind you of the vows you have made today and the love you will share forever.”
(Guide the couple as they exchange rings.)

6. The Pronouncement

• Declare the couple married in the eyes of God.

Example:
“By the authority vested in me, and as a servant of God, I now pronounce you husband and wife. What God has joined together, let no one separate. You may now share your first kiss as a married couple.”
(Pause for the kiss and applause.)

7. Closing Blessing

• Offer a final prayer or blessing over the couple.

Example:
“Let us bow our heads in prayer. Heavenly Father, we ask Your blessing upon [Bride’s Name] and [Groom’s Name]. Fill their hearts with love, their home with peace, and their life with joy. May they walk together in faith, guided by Your wisdom and grace. Amen.”

8. Presentation of the Couple

• Introduce the couple to the congregation for the first time.

Example:
“Ladies and gentlemen, it is my great honor to present to you for the first time, Mr. and Mrs. [Last Name]!”