Religious, Interfaith and Multicultural Ceremonies

This one I owe a debt of gratitude to the Mother of the Bride for helping me
with. I cannot stress enough the wonderful opportunity the wedding is for
growth and understanding and enjoyment. I would like to say thank you to
Farah and John and Mrs. Maroni for helping me and trusting me to present the
cultural and religious aspects of this ceremony that were important to them.

~ Farah and John ~
(Indian and Pakistani Muslim joyfully weds Mid Western Christian )

~ Preamble ~

"Good afternoon and welcome! As we will be beginning shortly I would ask that
those of you with telecommunications devices, Cell phones, beepers and such,
if you will please turn them off or switch them to vibrate at this time.

One of the best parts of being included in celebrations such as this one is that
we can all feel that in some way we are in some way participating in global
unification. Today we celebrate the best of what it means to be human and the
divinely inspired desire to spend a lifetime with the one that you love.

Today Farah and John give and receive a precious gift from one another. It is
the promise that they shall each continue to be deserving of the faith and trust
that they place in one another as husband and wife. They would also like to
acknowledge that today they are entrusted with the most precious thing that
each family have to give, their daughter, and their son. You have set a
wonderful example for them, and they shall do everything in their power to live
up to all that you have showed them in your words and in your deeds. They
also want you to know that their responsibility to you is not taken lightly and
that all of the traditions they each grew up with shall not only be honored and
respected but reveled in.

And now without further delay our Bride and Groom await!"

Preamble is delivered
Music and Processional start
With all in place, we begin!

~ Opening Prayer ~

"God, Who art Beneficent and Merciful, Whose presence is the happiness of
every condition and sanctifies every relationship, bless us today in the uniting of
these two souls. Farah and John come before us to speak important words of
their own that through your grace, shall be a precious a new beginning in their
lives. Bless them today and always, that they will forever see you, and know
you, in their hearts and in their home. And bless us all who are here that
through Farah and John our own promises and connection to you, and to one
another, shall be strengthened.
Amen"

~ Welcoming of the Guests ~

"Although this is their day,
It is also a tribute to all of you.
For knowing you and interacting with you,
Has helped to make Farah and John
Who they needed to be to find each other.
They would like to thank you for that.
All of you are the threads of which are woven
the tapestry of their lives.
Each one of you is an important piece in the story it tells.
It is the fabric they wrap around themselves,
and take comfort in, when the world seems cold.
And on days like today, when all is right with the world,
That tapestry is proudly spread out and displayed
for everyone to see,
With all the glorious colors and textures your diversity adds.
You all hold a place in their hearts reserved for those
that they have chosen to call "Family" and "Friend"
and they are deeply grateful for each and every one of you here today."

~ First Reading ~

"Shezad and Teresa will you come read for us?"

Shezad and Theresa step forward, introduce and deliver the reading

"We'd like to offer this poem to celebrate our love for Farah and John
and to wish them the blessings that grow from the simple joys
of creating each new day of life together."

"I Want Both Of Us"
by Hafiz

"I want both of us
To start Talking about this great Love

As if you, I and the Sun were all married
And living in a tiny room,

Helping each other to cook,
Do the wash,
Weave and sew,
Care for our beautiful
Animals,

We all leave each morning
To labor on the earth's field.
No one does not lift a great pack.

I want both of us to start Singing like two
Traveling minstrels
About this extraordinary existence
We share,

As if You, I, and God were all married
And living in
A tiny
Room."

~ Second Reading ~

"Almas will you come read for us?"

Almas steps forward, introduces and delivers her reading

"The Most Wonderful Of All Things In Life"
by Sir Hugh Walpole, 1884-1941

"The most wonderful of all things in life is the discovery of another human
being with whom one's relationship has a growing depth, beauty and joy as the
years increase. This inner progressiveness of love between two human beings is
a most marvelous thing; it cannot be found by looking for it or by passionately
wishing for it. It is a sort of divine accident, and the most wonderful of all things
in life."

~ Love Letters ~

"Today is a celebration of the most intimate of human experiences, the sacred
space created when there is a union of souls has both a sublime quality and a
part that speaks to the very core of the human experience. It transcends global
and cultural boundaries, religious and political differences, it is something
wonderfully alive and unique to every relationship. Yet at the same time Farah
and John share a common bond with every human who has ever felt the
presence of their beloved within their own spirit. They also share a moment in
time with all of those who in the real tangible, physical, day to day world, have
found the one person they could share it all with. The joys and the sorrows, the
triumphs and the tragedies, the large and the small are all theirs together. Not
only are we here for the celebration of the joining of these two wonderful
people, but to get a glimpse of what this truly means from their perspective. To
this end they have chosen to share these words with you."

Bride and Groom share their letters to one another

~ Farah and John ~

"As you all know by now Farah and John are already at one in their hearts, their
mind and all that is their life together. There is a natural order to the way the fit
together and interact. As our surroundings, this beautiful garden tell us, the hand
of the divine and the cycles of life move ever onward making marriage the next
logical step in their growth, evolution, and blossoming.

When Farah and John first came to discuss what would be said today, I had
asked them to bring with them some things that they thought reflective of what
they have found in one another. They came with these words by the Sufi poet
Hafiz.

Even after all this time,
The Sun never says to the Earth:
'You owe me.'
Look at what happens with a love like that
It lights up the whole sky

Not only was mother nature displaying the signs which had called to Farah and
John's hearts, but mother Morani had also decided that now was the time for
love and marriage, and who are we to question her wisdom?"

~ Invocation ~

"Almighty and Infinite God,
We thank you for the gift of love
That you have bestowed upon Farah and John
They come into your presence with precious gifts,
Their Love, their Faith in each other,
And their trust in You.
We pray that they may find life's deepest meaning.
And richest happiness.
May your blessings forever continue to shine upon them,
Blessing them with prosperity and abundance,
Health and happiness, joy and peace
In both the physical and spiritual world
All the days of their journey."

~ The Rings ~

"The ring, a circle, is one of nature's simplest forms. The arc of the rainbow,
the halo of the moon and the smallest of raindrops simulate the circle. A circle is
the symbol of the sun and the earth and the universe. It is a symbol of
perfection and of peace. This is why the wedding band, the symbol of eternity,
with no end and no beginning has withstood the test of time. The ring finger of
the left hand, the side of the body that holds the heart, has been used for the
wedding band because for centuries people believed that there was a vein that
ran directly from that finger to the heart. In these rings is the symbol of unity, in
which your lives are now joined, so that wherever you go, you will always
return to one another and to your togetherness. As the circle turns again unto
itself, so does marriage turn unto itself for its refreshment and renewal. May
these rings remind you always of the vows you have taken here today."

~ Ring Vows ~

"John, there are certain things that you can do to help to ensure that you and
Farah live a long and happy life together.....

Your beautiful bride loves the fact that she can be a part of your enjoyment,
particularly the joy and fulfillment that you get from the outdoors, and that the
two of you share not only love, but a deep and abiding friendship. This stems
from the gift you give in your commitment to truly hearing what she has to say.
You are Farah's best friend. It means the world to her that fit so naturally
among her friends. And that you both love, and are loved by her family. She
asks for you to remember these things as important as the years pass, for they
are but some of the qualities that make you the amazing man that she wishes to
spend the rest of her life with.

She also asks that you continue to make her laugh, especially in a difficult
situations. For it ensures that you are rarely ever angry at each other, because
by seeing the humour in things, they can always be worked out long before the
point of anger.

Although Farah looks forward to the many things that life will bring the best
thing of all is that they will all happen with you by her side. Do you promise to
do and remember these things in the spirit of love and joy and hope that brings
you here today? And do you take Farah to be your wife?"

John: "I do."

"Will you now place the ring on your beloved's finger
and repeat after me?"

John places the ring half way onto Farah's finger

"Farah, you are my life, my love, my best friend."

John places the ring the rest of the way on to Farah's finger

"Farah, there are certain things that you can do to help to ensure that you and
John live a long and happy life together.....

You are a rare jewel, as beautiful on the inside as you are to behold from afar.
John has never in his life been as comfortable another human being as he is with
you. Nor has he ever enjoyed being with any one as much as he enjoys your
presence. He loves that you are intelligent and funny, and that way you have of
inspiring him to give his best to everything that he does. John admires your
devotion to family and your highly developed common sense. You are already
all that he could ask for in a wife, a partner and a best friend, And then there's
the widely recognized fact that you can cook! All this makes you more than he
would have ever dreamed possible for one woman to be, and equally wondrous
is the fact that from this day forth you will be his wife.

As the years pass do you promise to remember these things and the spirit of this
day as important? And do you take John to be your husband?"

Farah: "I do."

"Will you now place the ring on your beloved's finger
and repeat after me?"

Farah places the ring half way onto John's finger

"John, you are my life, my love, my best friend."

Farah places the ring the rest of the way onto Johnâ€™s finger

~ Reading From the Quran and The Nikkah Blessing ~

The Mother of the Bride steps forward to read from the Quran
and then gives the traditional Muslim Wedding Blessing

"It requires that a husband and wife should be as garments for each other. Just
as garments are for protection, comfort, show and concealment for human
beings, Allah expects husbands and wives to be for one another. And the
believers, men and women, are protecting friends of one another; they enjoin
the right and forbid the wrong, and they establish worship and they pay the
poor-due, and they obey Allah and His messenger; as for those, Allah will have
mercy on them; Lo! Allah is Mighty, Wise. Allah hath promised to believers -
men and women - gardens under which rivers flow, to dwell therein, and
beautiful mansions in gardens of everlasting bliss; but the greatest bliss is the
good pleasure of Allah: This is the supreme felicity."

"Oh God strengthen and preserve the love and respect that John and Farah have
for each other as they live their lives and bless them with happiness

Bless them as you blessed
Hazrat Adam and Bibi Havva
H Ebrahim and Bibi Sarah
H Yusuf and Zulekha
H Musa Bibi Safura
Hazrat Muhammed Mustafa and Bibi Khadija
And Hazrat Ali and Bibi Fatima"

~ Pronouncement ~

"You are now as your hearts have always known you to be,
Husband and Wife. You may kiss your beautiful Bride!"

~ Sharing of the Cup ~

"Sonia, will you now bring the cup of Saffron and sweetened nut milk that shall
fortify Farah and John on their journey through the years ahead."

Sonia brings forth the cup
The groom holds the cup to his brides lips, she sips from the cup,
then the bride holds the cup to the grooms lips and he sips.
This continues until they empty the cup

"While the drink you share symbolizes the sharing of all the things in life before
you, may the cup that you drink from, which has passed through four
generations of the Bride's family, give you cause to reflect in gratitude on all
that has come to pass, and the history of both great families that are now joined
by your marriage."

~ Abochhan and Chhera Chheri ~

"These shawls are called the Abochhan they are symbolic of the Bride and
Groom taking one another to be husband and wife. And the coconut,
it is a symbol of prosperity and abundance."

Groom places shawl over Bride's shoulders Bride places shawl over Groom's
shoulders Groom places coconut in the Bride's hands

"Shadia will you come perform the Chhera Chheri?"

Shadia comes forward to do the binding The edge of the shawl over the
bridegrooms shoulder is tied to the edge of the shawl that has been draped
over the bride. The two remaining edges are then also tied together.

"For those of you witnessing this for the first time, the tying together of the
shawls, which symbolizes Farah and John's union as one entity now, will
undoubtedly bring to mind the familiar terms "The bonds of Holy matrimony"
and to "Tie the knot". However what follows is a beautiful example of how at
different times and places in their life each one may lead and follow as needed,
for the good of both and the family."

The Bride and Groom are then led through the crowd
alternating who shall lead and who will follow

~ Presentation ~

"Ladies and gentlemen may I present as Husband and Wife
John and Farah!"

Bride and Groom kiss again and exit to greet their guests!

This next one I claim no credit for, but I absolutely love it!
The Bride and Groom put it all together by themselves
then contacted me to be their voice and it was my pleasure
to be a part of their day

~ Jeremiah and Jennifer ~
(Jewish and Christian single officiant ceremony)

"We welcome all of you here today to witness the marriage of Jeremiah and
Jennifer. As family and friends of this couple, our lives have been touched by
them in a special way. We are here to share in their joy and celebrate the
commitment of their love, a love that this man and this woman now desire to
express in the estate of holy matrimony. Every marriage ceremony is unique,
and today, not only are two special people being joined together, but two faiths,
as well. Out of two different and distinct traditions, they have come together to
learn the best of what each has to offer, appreciating their differences, and
confirming that love, which is spoken of in all religions, is our true home, our
true meeting place. So this is not only a joyous occasion, but a holy one, as
well. May you see that your love for each other is truly a gift from God. It is
our prayer that your hearts will be molded together this day with God's seal of
approval. The Bible says, Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all
things, endures all things. Love never fails. So faith, hope, and love abide, these
three; but the greatest of these is love."

~ Consent ~

"Jeremiah, will you have Jennifer to be your wife,
to live together in the bond of marriage?
Will you commit yourself completely to her and her alone?
And will you promise to love her, care for her,
and stand by her through all that life may bring,
as long as you both shall live?"

Jeremiah: "I will."

"And Jennifer, will you have Jeremiah to be your husband,
to live together in the bond of marriage?
Will you commit yourself completely to him and him alone?
And will you promise to love him, care for him,
and stand by him through all that life may bring,
as long as you both shall live?"

Jennifer: "I will."

~ Address and Readings ~

"Have you ever thought about why you want to get married?
Take a moment, and gaze into each other's eyes.
What is it that you see there that has captured your soul?
What spark, what love, what beauty have you found in those eyes
that have made you into a better person?
Do you remember when you first met?
When you first kissed?
Can you recall the moment when your lover
turned your heart upside down?

Now, today, you have come to bring all of these emotions into something
more. Today, you are taking into your care and trust the happiness of the one
person in this world whom you love with all your heart. You are agreeing to
share life's deepest and richest experiences. You are adding to your life not only
the affection of each other, but also the companionship and blessing of mutual
respect. You have invited these guests to share in the celebration of your love,
a very special love that now culminates in your union as husband and wife.

When you enter into marriage, you enter into life's most important relationship.
It is a gift given to bring comfort when there is sorrow, peace when there is
unrest, laughter when there is happiness, and love when it is shared. Real love
goes far beyond the feelings of romance and bliss. It is caring more about the
well-being and happiness of your marriage partner than your own needs and
desires. Love makes burdens lighter because you divide them. It makes joys
more intense because you share them. It makes you stronger so you can
become involved with life in ways you dare not risk alone. Real love says you
are stronger together than when you are apart.

A successful marriage is not something that just happens. It takes work, it takes
understanding, and it takes time. Most importantly, it takes a commitment from
both of you... a commitment to do whatever it takes to make your relationship
thrive and not just simply survive. A good marriage must be created. Listen to
these words of wisdom on the art of marriage."

~ The Art of Marriage ~

"The little things are the big things.
It is never being too old to hold hands.
It is remembering to say I love you at least once a day.
It is never going to sleep angry.
It as at no time taking the other for granted;
the courtship should not end with the honeymoon,
It should continue through all the years.
It is having a mutual sense of values and common objectives;
it is facing the world together.
It is forming a circle of love
that gathers in the whole family.
It is doing things for each other,
not in the attitude of duty or sacrifice,
but in the spirit of joy.
It is speaking words of appreciation
and demonstrating gratitude in thoughtful ways.
It is not expecting the husband to wear a halo
or the wife to have the wings of an angel.
It is not looking for perfection in each other.
It is cultivating flexibility, patience, understanding,
and a sense of humor.
It is having the capacity to forgive and forget.
It is giving each other an atmosphere
in which each can grow.
It is finding room for the things of the spirit.
It is the common search for the good and the beautiful.
It is the establishing of a relationship,
in which the independence is equal, the dependence is mutual,
And the obligation is reciprocal.
And finally, it is not only marrying the right partner,
it is being the right partner."

~ Wedding Vows ~

"Jeremiah would you now like to share your vow with Jennifer?"

"I, Jeremiah, take you, Jennifer, to be my wife.
Thank you for choosing to share your life with me.
You have filled my heart with love,
my home with joy, and my life with happiness.
I feel truly blessed being your love, your friend,
and your companion.
I promise you my faithfulness, my trust,
my friendship, and, most of all, my love.
Throughout my life, I'll be by your side
to share all the joys and sorrows that life presents to us.
I love you now and will love you forever."

"Jennifer would you now like to share her vow with Jeremiah?"

"Jeremiah,
You are the best thing that has ever happened to me.
I thank God each day for bringing us together.
You are the love of my life as well as my best friend.
Because of you, I am a better person today.
I promise to always love you, honor you,
respect you, and cherish you.
I promise to always be faithful to you.
I will trust you with my heart and with my life.
I promise I will always be there for you,
no matter what life brings our way.
Thank you for choosing to share your life with me
as my husband.
I give you my heart, and it's yours to keep
for the rest of my life."

~ Explanation of the Rings ~

"You are about to present a ring to each other. The wedding ring, a complete
circle, is the symbol of the completeness a husband and wife find in a marriage
relationship. The ring has no beginning and no end, just as true love is
never-ending. The ring also is made of precious metals, just as true love is a
precious treasure. As you place the wedding ring on each other's hand, may it
not only remind you of the endless love you possess for one another, but may
it also be a reminder of the precious gift God has given you to make you
complete."

~ Ring Exchange Vows ~

"Is there a token of Jeremiah's love for Jennifer?"

Best Man: "There is!"

Best man gives Jennifer's ring to Jeremiah

"Jeremiah, as you place this ring on Jennifer's finger
will you please repeat after me...

I give you this ring.
Wear it with love and joy.
As this ring has no end,
Neither shall my love for you.
I choose you to be my wife
This day and forevermore."

"Is there a token of Jennifer's love for Jeremiah?"

Maid of Honor: "There is!"

Maid of Honor gives Jeremiah's ring to Jennifer

"Jennifer, as you place this ring on Jeremiah's finger
will you please repeat after me...

This ring I give you
In token of my love and devotion,
And with my heart,
I pledge to you all that I am.
With this ring, I marry you
and join my life to yours."

~ Wedding Prayer/Blessing ~

"May all that you are, always be in love;
and may all that is love, always be in you.
May your love be as beautiful on each day you share
as it is on this day of celebration.
And may each day you share be as precious to you
as the day you first fell in love.
May you always see and encourage the best in each other.
May the challenges life brings your way
make your marriage even stronger.
And may you always be each other's best friend
and greatest love."

~ Pronouncement ~

"Jeremiah and Jennifer,
now that you have shared with each other
these words of love and commitment,
and we have witnessed the expression of your love
as you have given each other these rings,
and you have joined your hands and hearts
before your family and friends,
it is with great joy that I pronounce you husband and wife.
Jeremiah, you may now kiss your beautiful bride!"

~ Lyn and Richard ~
(Catholic and Jewish two officiants)

~ Preamble ~

Pastor April: "Good afternoon and welcome! As we will be beginning shortly I
would ask that those of you with telecommunications devices, Cell phones,
beepers and such, if you will please turn them off or switch them to vibrate at
this time."

Rabbi Frank: "Every marriage ceremony is unique, and today, not only are
two special people being joined together, but two faiths, as well. Out of two
different and distinct traditions, they have come together to learn the best of
what each has to offer, appreciating their differences, and confirming that love,
which is spoken of in all religions, is our true home, our true meeting place. So
this is not only a joyous occasion, but a holy one, as well. May you see that
your love for each other is truly a gift from God.

And now without further delay our Bride and Groom await!"

Processional Music begins
The Entrances are made
With all in place, we begin!

~ Opening Prayer ~

Pastor April: "Behold the Light of Love.
There is no Grace more glorious.
Only Love turns our heads away
so as not to see small faults or lackings in another.
And it is just that action which imitates Divine Mercy,
which is the Path to Peace.
May Love shine, and Peace prevail,
over all of us gathered here. Amen."

Rabbi Frank: "ASHRAY HABAEEM B'SHEM HAHIEYEEM.
ASHRAY HABAEEM B'SHEM HAAHAVA.

Happy are those who come in the name of life.
Happy are those who come in the name of love."

~ Welcoming of the Guests ~

Pastor April: "Lyn and Rick would like to thank you all for being here with
them today, and for supporting them through the 11 years that it has taken to
make this day a reality. They know that your taking the time, and making the
journey, took considerable effort for a good many of you and they want you all
to know the deep appreciation and gratitude that they feel in their hearts for
this. All of you here are the most important people in their lives. You have
shared their best and worst days and you are an irreplaceable part of their
yesterdays, their today, and all of their tomorrows. Of course they know that
you know this, but much in the same way that some things are better left
unsaid, other things really do need to be spoken of.

Today Lyn and Rick give and receive a precious gift from one another. It is the
promise that they shall each continue to be deserving of the faith and trust that
they place in one another as husband and wife. This responsibility is not taken
lightly. You have all set a good example and high standards for them. The
lessons you have taught are things like, tradition and family history is important,
that loving and caring always comes first, that family stays family, even if the
nature of the relationship changes over time, and that joy is a vital part of living.
Lyn and Rick firmly believe that through their relationship with all of you, they
have become better people than they ever could have become under different
circumstances. They want you to know that they shall do everything in their
power to live up to all that you have taught them."

Rabbi Frank: "Marriage is an opportunity for happiness. It is also risky
business. Two people who choose the partnership of love and loyalty need
many skills to make it work. They need patience, kindness, generosity, good
humor, and the ability to compromise. They need persistence, nurturing, trust,
discretion, and the willingness to be vulnerable.

But almost nothing offers a greater possibility for living life well. When marriage
works it justifies all the effort. Life is richer when experience is shared. We are
more ourselves when we are responding to the stimulus of others, especially
when we are responding to the gift of love. A truly loving relationship brings out
the best in each other.

If romance leads to friendship, if coming together makes room for individual
space, if dreams turn into realistic expectations, if the dazzle of beginnings
yields to long-run commitment, if one is always willing to demand of oneself
what one demands of others, then love becomes more profound, and the bond
of marriage is strengthened.

To choose marriage is to accept a challenge, the challenge
that love provides when it wants to grow."

~ Invocation ~

Pastor April: "Lord God,
Bless this couple who stand before us now.
As they commit their love
and their lives to one another in marriage,
so do they mirror your unconditional love.
Continue to be with them in their thoughts,
their words, and their deeds.
Bless their lives with health and happiness,
with peace and prosperity,
and with a love which continues to grow,
and endure, and inspire.
We give thanks for your blessings
which already grace their union
and look forward to all the rewards yet to come."

"Amen"

Rabbi Frank: "And now, let us all now join in the Hebrew prayer of gratitude:

Barukh ata Adonai elohaynu melekh haolam shehecheyanu,
vkeymanu, vhigeeanu lazman hazeh.

Blessed are you, Adonai our God, ruler of the universe, who has given us life,
sustained us, and permitted us to celebrate this joyous occasion."

~ The Lord's Prayer ~

Pastor April: "Will you all now join with me in reciting the Lord's Prayer?"

All: "Our Father, who art in heaven,
hallowed be thy Name, thy kingdom come,
thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven.
Give us this day our daily bread.
And forgive us our trespasses,
as we forgive those who trespass against us.
And lead us not into temptation,
but deliver us from evil."

"Amen"

Pastor April: "May the peace of the Lord be with you all."

All: "And also with you."

Pastor April: "Let us now offer each other a sign of peace."

Guests exchange a sign of peace

~ Blessing of the Rings ~

Pastor April: "Greg and Jennifer will you now hold out the rings entrusted to
you by Lyn and Richard? Your hands beneath serve as a symbol of how Lyn
and Richard and their marriage are supported upon this earth by the love of
their friends and family as blessed from above."

Greg and Jennifer hold out the wedding bands in the palm of their hands
Celebrant continues:

Pastor April: "Lord God, guardian of all that is seen and unseen,
Bless these rings and this couple who shall wear them.
Keep them safe through adversity forever supported
by your eternal blessing."

Celebrant takes rings

~ The Rings ~

Pastor April: "There are no words to accurately describe the depth of the bond
of marriage. There are no words to accurately describe the depths of love
shared by two who would be wed. For all of our reference points lie here in the
material world while love transcends all that we know. The spiritual bond and
connection shared by this couple and those who have gone before them, it can
only be understood as a metaphor. This is why the wedding band, the symbol
of eternity, with no end and no beginning has withstood the test of time."

Rabbi Frank: "Within a marriage each person is both their own and each
others. Their personal integrity does not diminish by their union. In fact it is
enhanced and supported by this new creation that is their marriage. You will see
this along with the drinking in of the promises they make, beautifully
exemplified in the sharing and combining of wines that Lyn and Richard have
incorporated into their ring vows."

~ Ring Vows ~

Pastor April: "Richard, there are certain things that you can do to help to ensure
that you and Lyn live a long and happy life together.....

The sensitivity that you possess deep down inside, shines like a beacon through
all the little things that you do. The way you bring Lynn flowers and cards, the
phone calls from work, and the way you leave little notes to show how much
you care, all of these things mean the world to Lyn. Your wonderful sense of
humor, the ability you have to make her laugh, your spontaneity and sense of
adventure, and the way you are unafraid to show physical gestures of your
affection with hugs, kisses, and reaching for her hand, as time passes these are
the things that Lyn asks for you to remember as important. For they are but
some of the qualities that make you the amazing man that she wishes to spend
the rest of her life with.

She also asks that you continue to support her in all of her choices and always
encourage her to be the best Lyn that she can be, that you continue to respect
her opinions through agreement and disagreement, that you continue to work
with her to ensure that your home remains a place where everyone is always
welcome, but first and foremost she asks that you continue to forever be her
best friend.

Lyn looks forward to growing old together, to time to sit at the end of everyday
and share what happened to us individually, to sharing more grandchildren, to
making new memories, experiencing new adventures, and to all that your
marriage shall bring

Do you promise to do and remember these things in the spirit of love and joy
and hope that brings you here today? And do you take Lyn to be your wife?"

Richard: "I do."

Rabbi Frank: "Will you now place the ring on your Lyn's finger
and repeat after me?"

Richard places the ring half way on to Lyn's finger

"I Richard take you Lyn to be my wife
I will love you, and honor you,
respect and cherish you
All the days of my life."

Richard places the ring the rest of the way on to Lyn's finger, picks up his
glass, toasts and drinks to her then pours one third of his wine into the center
chalice and places his glass back on the altar

Pastor April: "Lyn, there are certain things that you can do to help to ensure
that you and Richard live a long and happy life together.....

Being with someone who is a truly good person is a gift that you give to Howie
and all those in your life. Your unselfish, caring attitude, and thoughtfulness
make you as beautiful on the inside as you are from afar. You are a person who
allows others to see themselves as special because you have chosen to share
your life with them. You are strong, independent, and intelligent. It makes
Richard feel good to know that you have allowed yourself to need him. He
loves the way you look at him and smile, the way you give him his coffee and a
kiss goodbye in the mornings, and a kiss hello at the end of the day. As time
passes Richard asks for you to remember these things as important, for they are
but some of the qualities that make you the remarkable woman that he wishes
to spend the rest of his life with.

He also asks that you continue to respect each other through both the brilliant
and the silly things that you each shall do, to support one another's dreams and
aspirations, and that you never be afraid to ask for each other's help or opinion.

Richard looks forward to enjoying watching your families grow and to being
there for them., to the years you will spend sharing your thoughts, ideas,
dreams, and planning your future., and to the quiet time just relaxing,
communicating with one another and being close. He looks forward to spending
all of his tomorrows knowing that your partnership is and will be a relationship
of equals.

Do you promise to do and remember these things in the spirit of love and joy
and hope that brings you here today? And do you take Richard to be your
husband?"

Lyn: "I do."

Rabbi Frank: "Will you now place the ring on Richard's finger
and repeat after me?"

Lyn places the ring half way onto Richard's finger

"I Lyn take you Richard to be my husband
I will love you, and honor you,
respect and cherish you
All the days of my life."

Lyn places the ring the rest of the way onto Richard's finger, picks up her
glass, toasts and drinks to him then pours one third of her wine into the center
chalice and places her glass back on the altar

~ The 7 Blessings or Sheva Berakhot ~

Rabbi begins the seven blessings over the wine

Rabbi Frank:
1. BARUCH ATAH ADONAI ELOHEINU MELECH HA-OLAM,
SHE-HAKOL BARA LICHVODO.

Blessed is the glory of all creation.

2. BARUCH ATAH ADONAI ELOHEINU MELECH HA-OLAM, YOTZEIR
HA-ADAM.

Blessed is the creation of the human being

3. BARUCH ATAH ADONAI ELOHEINU MELECH HA-OLAM, ASHER
YATZAR ET HA-ADAM B'TZALMO, B'TZELEM D'MUT TAVNITO,
V'HITKIN LO MIMENU BINYAN ADEI AD. BARUCH ATAH ADONAI,
YOTZEIR HA-ADAM.

Blessed is the design of the human being,
united in heart and the search for love.

4. SOS TASIS V'TAGEIL HA-AKARA B'KIBUTZ BANEHA L'TOCHA
B'SIMCHA. BARUCH ATAH ADONAI M'SAMEI-ACH TZION B'VANEHA.

Blessed is the joy of our gathering.
May rejoicing resound throughout the world as the homeless
are given homes, persecution and oppression cease, and all people
learn to live in peace with each other and harmony with the earth.

5. SAMEI-ACH T'SAMACH REI-IM HA-AHUVIM K'SAMEI-CHA-CHA
Y'TZIRCHA B'GAN EIDEN MIKEDEM, BARUCH ATAH ADONAI
M'SAMEI-ACH CHATAN V'CHALAH.

Let these loving companions rejoice. May their joy be as paradise on earth.

6. BARUCH ATAH ADONAI ELOHEINU MELECH HA-OLAM, ASHER
BARA SASON V'SIMCHA CHATAN V'CHALAH, GILAH RINAH DITZAH
V'CHEDVAH, AHAVAH V'ACHAVAH V'SHALOM V'REI-UT. M'HEIRA
ADONAI ELOHEINU YISHAMAH B'AREI Y'HUDAH UV-CHUTZOT
Y'RUSHALAYIM KOL SASON V'KOL SIMCHA, KOL CHATAN V'KOL
CHALAH, KOL MITZ-HALOT CHATANIM MEICHUPATAM UN-ARIM
MIMISHTEI N'GINATAM, BARUCH ATAH ADONAI, M'SAMEI-ACH
CHATAN IM HA-KALAH.

Blessed is the creation of joy and celebration, Bride and Groom,
delight and cheer, love and solidarity, peace and companionship.
Blessed and praised is this love and this marriage.

7. Wine is a universal symbol of joy - of the richness of life,
the sweetness of love. It is appropriate therefore that on this happy occasion
you toast life with this ancient symbol

BARUCH ATAH ADONAI ELOHEINU
MELECH HA-OLAM BOREI P'RI HAGAFEN.

Blessed are life, health, and love, which enable us to enjoy
the happiness of this beautiful day.

Bride and Groom then together pick up the center chalice, each with both
hands on the chalice, they then together drink from it as celebrant continues,
then return it to the altar

Pastor April: "As the wines in the glass have intermingled their essence so do
your spirits join as you drink of each others love. Neither of you shall ever
again thirst for total Love, understanding, or companionship, for as food and
drink nourish the body so does Love nourish the soul. In this manner so shall
each of you be as sustenance to the other."

Rabbi Frank: "As you have shared wine from this cup so may you draw
happiness and fulfillment from the cup of life. May you find life's joys
heightened, it's bitterness sweetened, and all things hallowed by true
compassion and love."

Pastor April: "May the sun bring you new energy by day.
May the moon softly restore you by night.
May the rain wash away your worries.
And may you live the days of your lives in peace, love, and happiness."

~ Breaking of the Glass ~

Rabbi Frank: "The traditional breaking of the glass marks the end of the
ceremony. Lyn and Richard, may all your happiness be as great as the number
of shattered pieces of glass, and may all of your troubles be as easily shattered.

As the glass is broken, I invite everyone to shout 'Mazal Tov',
which means 'congratulations and good luck.'

Pastor April: "You are now as your hearts have always known you to be,
Husband and Wife. You may kiss your beautiful Bride!"

Bride and Groom kiss

Glass is wrapped in cloth then placed on the floor,

Groom steps on glass, breaking it., everyone claps,

"Mal Tov!"

Bride and Groom kiss again and exit!

~ Kathleen and Hugh ~
(Catholic couple married at the Historical Chapel)

"Good afternoon and welcome! As we will be beginning shortly I would ask that
those of you with telecommunications devices, Cell phones, beepers and such, if
you will please turn them off or switch them to vibrate at this time. I ask also
that you note the Litany in your programs. The words to today's call and
response can be found there.

Hugh, If you will join me now with your Best Man Marcelo,
your beautiful Bride awaits!"

Processional

~ Moment of Remembrance ~

"It is Kathleen and Hugh's wish that as we get started today you all join with
them in a brief moment of remembrance.

Take a moment if you will, to allow yourselves to truly partake of all the love
and joy that is this day. Love is that which all of the true bonds in life are made
of. Life, death, geographic distances, and time that can be measured in
increments are all inconsequential when it comes to the strength and power of
love. With in mind remember now, the loved ones, who could not be with us
today. See them sitting among us in their rightful places, beaming with pride,
rejoicing for that which Kathleen and Hugh have found in each other, sharing in
the love and joy that is this day, secure in the knowledge that they are all loved
and remembered."

memory candle is lit

~ Opening Prayer ~

"Heavenly Father, In the beginning there was the word, and the word was with
you. When you spoke those words they held in them the power of creation, and
all life began. Kathleen and Hugh come before us today to speak important
words of their own that, through your grace, shall be a precious a new beginning
in their lives. Bless them today and always, that they will forever see you, and
know you, in their hearts and in their home. And bless us all who are here, that
through Kathleen and Hugh our own promises, and connection to you, and to
one another, shall be strengthened. This we ask through our Lord Jesus Christ
who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit one God for ever
and ever."

"Amen."

~ Declaration of Intent ~

"Marriage is a bond to be entered into only after considerable thought and
reflection. In the case of Kathleen and Hugh this also includes friendship, mutual
respect, admiration, and personal growth. As with all aspects of life, there are
cycles, waiting and advancing, trials and triumphs, a time for everything and now
dear friends is the time for love and marriage. A couple who wed are joined by
their resolve that come what may, they remain together through time. As
someone who stands outside of their hearts, I have not the right to bind our
Bride and Groom to one another, only they have this right. So I shall ask them
now if this is their choice.

Kathleen, Have you come here today of your own free will to take Hugh to be
your husband, that you may live together as equal partners sharing all that life
has to offer?"

Kathleen: "I have."

"Will you love him, comfort him, honor and keep him all the days of your
journey?"

Kathleen: "I will."

"Hugh, Have you come here today of your own free will to take Kathleen to be
your wife, that you may live together as equal partners sharing all that life has to
offer?"

Hugh: "I have."

"Will you love her comfort her, honor and keep her all the days of your journey?"

Hugh: "I will."

"Living by these promises that you make today, may your future be blessed even
beyond that which all of those who are gathered here, who love you both so
dearly, would dare to wish for you."

~ Unity Candle ~

"As a visual symbol to foreshadow the years ahead Kathleen and Hugh have
chosen to light a Unity Candle. Barbara and William and Laura as a
demonstration of your families love and support of this marriage, will you now
step up to the altar and light candles representing the separate families, family
history's and blood lines that shall also today to be joined together as one?"

Angela begins to sing "Songbird"

Barbara and William, and Laura come behind the altar
They light the tapers representing their family
then return to their seats
Bride and Groom step behind the altar
Bride and Groom take their taper in hand and light the center candle
They then place the tapers back in their holders,
and do not snuff their flames, and return to in front of the altar

~ Invocation ~

Minister: "May the Lord be with you."
All: "And also with you."
Minister: "Let us pray."

"O gracious Father and ever living God,
Thou art all knowing, all loving,
Creator of all that has come to pass,
And all that is yet to be.
You have created us male and female in your image,
And we give thanks unto you for the gift of love
That you have bestowed upon this couple,
In keeping with your divine plan.
We ask that you watch over them and guide them.
Bless and protect them through all the wonderful
And difficult times that they will know in the years ahead.
May you know them and be with them
All the days of their lives.
This we ask through our Lord Jesus Christ,
Who lives and reigns with you,
In the unity of the holy spirit,
One God, for ever and ever."

"Amen."

~ A Litany based on "The Prayer" ~
Attributed to St. Francis of Assissi

"Chris and Sean will you come to lead us in the Litany?"

Chris and Sean come forward and deliver the prayer

Leader: "With all our heart and all our mind,
we pray to you O Lord:"

People: "Make us instruments of your peace."

Leader: "For the peace of the world, that a spirit of respect
and forbearance may grow among nations and peoples,
we pray to you O Lord:"

People: "Where there is hatred, let us sow Love."

Leader: "For our enemies and those who wish us harm,
and for all whom we have injured or offended,
we pray to you O Lord:"

People: "Where there is injury, let us sow pardon."

Leader: "For all who believe in God in your many names,
that our divisions may cease and all may be one,
as the Father and Son are one,
we pray to you O Lord:"

People: "Where there is discord let us sow union."

Leader: "For those who do not yet believe,
for those who have lost their faith, and those in despair and darkness
that they may receive the power of your love,
we pray to you O Lord:"

People: "Where there is doubt let us sow faith."

Leader: "For the poor, the persecuted, the sick and all who suffer;
for refugees, prisoners, and all who are in danger;
that they may be relieved and protected,
we pray to you O Lord:"

People: "Where there is despair, let us sow hope."

Leader: "For all who live in places where there is evil among men
and bigotry and prejudice cast their dark shadow;
that the yoke of oppression shall be lifted,
we pray to you O Lord;"

People: "Where there is darkness let us sow light."

Leader: "For those who suffer in body, mind, or spirit;
that they may be comforted and healed; give then courage and hope
in their troubles, and bring them the joy of salvation,
we pray to you O Lord:"

People: "Where there is sadness let us sow joy."

All: "Grant that we may not so much seek
to be consoled, as to console;
to be understood, as to understand
to be loved, as to love.
For it is in giving that we receive;
it is in pardoning that we are pardoned;
and it is in dying that we are born into eternal life."

~ The Lord's Prayer ~

"Will you all now hold hands, and join with me in reciting the Lord's Prayer?"

All: "Our Father, who art in heaven,
hallowed be thy Name, thy kingdom come,
thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven.
Give us this day our daily bread.
And forgive us our trespasses,
as we forgive those who trespass against us.
And lead us not into temptation,
but deliver us from evil."

"Amen."

"May the peace of Christ be with you all."

All: "And also with you."

"Let us now offer each other a sign of Christ's peace."

Guests exchange a sign of peace

~ Ring Vows ~

"Hugh, there are certain things that you can do to help to ensure that you and
Kathleen live a long and happy life together.....

What you have together reminds Kathleen daily that there is love and goodness
in the world. You are ready always to listen with a kind ear when Kathleen needs
to talk. You also have the wisdom, and insight, to know when she is venting,
when to take her seriously, and when to reign her in. Your voice comforts her,
reassures her, and offers light in what were once dark places. You even have the
ability to make her laugh when she is cranky. Kathleen asks for you to remember
these things as important to her for they are but some of the qualities that make
you the amazing man that she wishes to spend the rest of her life with.

She also asks that as the years pass you continue paying attention to the little
things, because your efforts show her, and remind her in every gesture, of how
deeply you care. That you continue talk with her about the things that matter as
well as the things that don't. That you let her share in the good and difficult
things in your life and that you continue to be honest, even if you think it will
hurt her.

Will you do and remember these things in the spirit of love and joy and hope that
brings you here today? And do you take Kathleen to be your wife?"

Hugh: "I do."

"Will you now place your ring on your beautiful Bride's finger
and repeat after me?"

"All that I am, All that I do.
All that I shall dream shall be ours together.
I take you as my wife, my friend, my lover
From this day forth.
This I pledge, In the name of the Father,

Hugh places the ring half way onto Kathleen's index finger

And of the Son,

Then half way onto Kathleen's middle finger

And of the Holy Spirit,

And finally onto Kathleen's ring finger

Amen."

"Kathleen, there are certain things that you can do to help to ensure that you and
Hugh live a long and happy life together.....

Hugh's requests began with "my beautiful bride."˜ so we'll begin with the same.
To keep Hugh happy he asks that you continue to do the big things that you do
now. Like being honest with him about your feelings. He asks that you continue
to tell him when you are down, why you are down, how he can fix it- and on the
occasions that he can't, that you let him keep asking how, without getting mad.

The levels of communication that you share is a gift that must be maintained to
insure the quality of life that you both love. So please also continue to just speak
to him, to tell him when you need him close and when you need some time for
yourself, and to help him make the decisions he needs to make, just as you do
now, without judgment but with sincerity.

There are the little things that are important to him that you both keep doing:
your after dinner walks, date night, working together on the yard and in the
house, and all of the day to day things that make up the life you both love.
Those things keep Hugh going even during the hardest times.

As time passes do you promise to continue do these things, remembering that by
being who you are, you continue to be the best thing that has ever entered
Hugh's life. And do you take Hugh to be your husband?"

Kathleen: "I do."

"Will you now place your ring on your beloved's finger and repeat after me?

Hugh, you are my life, my love, my best friend
And with this ring, I thee wed
May it be a reminder of how much I love you,
Not only on this precious day,
But every single day of my life.
This I pledge, In the name of the Father,

Kathleen places the ring half way onto Hugh's index finger

And of the Son,

Then half way onto Hugh's middle finger

And of the Holy Spirit

And finally onto Hugh's ring finger

Amen

You are now as your hearts have always known you to be, husband and wife.
You may now seal your promises with a kiss!"

~ Closing Prayer ~

"Dan will you come and deliver the Closing Prayer"

Dan steps forward and begins the final blessing

"May the road rise to meet you,
May the wind be always at your back.
May the sun shine warm upon your face,
The rains fall soft upon your fields.
And through all the days of your togetherness,
May God hold you in the palm of his hand.

May God be with you and bless you;
May you see your children's children.
May you be poor in misfortune, rich in blessings,
May you know nothing but happiness
From this day forward.

May the road rise to meet you
May the wind be always at your back
May the warm rays of sun fall upon your home
And may the hand of a friend always be near.
May green be the grass you walk on,
May blue be the skies above you,
May pure be the joys that surround you,
May true be the hearts that love you."

~ Presentation of the Bride and Groom ~

"Ladies and gentlemen may I present Mr. and Mrs.
Hugh and Kathleen Brammer!"

Bride and Groom kiss again

Angela begins to sing the recessional

And the Bride and Groom exit to greet their guests!

~ Fatma and Eugene ~
(Christian and Muslim, beach wedding, with address to the Groom's son)

Processional

~ Opening Prayer ~

"Allah, the Most Beneficent and Merciful
Today you allow us to behold the Light of Love.
And there is no Gift more glorious.
For only Love turns our heads away
so as not to see small faults or lackings in another.
And it is just that action which imitates Divine Mercy,
which is the Path to Peace and Happiness.
May Love shine, and Peace prevail,
over all of us gathered here."

~ Welcoming of the Guests ~

"Fatma and Eugene would like to take a moment to thank you all for being here
with them today. They know that your taking the time, and making the
journey, took considerable effort for a good many of you and they wanted you
all to know the deep appreciation and gratitude that they feel in their hearts for
this. All of you here are the most important people in their lives. You have
shared their best and worst days and you are an irreplaceable part of their
yesterdays, their today, and all of their tomorrows. Of course they know that
you know this, but much in the same way that some things are better left
unsaid, other things really do need to be spoken of. This holds particularly true
on occasions such as this."

Addressing Michael

Often marriage is viewed as the union of two persons.
Yet marriages not only unite the Bride and the Groom, they unite families.
With the changing structure of what a family is in today's world we are offered
unique and wonderful opportunities to simply increase the number of loving
caring relationships that we have in our lives. During a wedding ceremony rings
are exchanged with a promise. It is the promise of a safe haven, free from
judgment, that offers unconditional love and support without fear of rejection
under any and all circumstances. Michael, being a father has always been one
of the most important parts of your dad's life and he so proud of you. He and
Fatma want you to know that the promises they make this day extend beyond
their relationship with one another. Their love and support and acceptance has
been and shall continue to be their life long commitment to you as well as each
other."

~ Fatma and Eugene ~

"The 13th century poet Jelleludan Rumi once said:
'The minute I heard my first love story I started looking for you, Not knowing
how blind that was. Lovers don't finally meet somewhere they're in each other
all along.'

And how true this is even now. As we look at the beauty of the beach and the
ocean we know the raindrop looks not for the sea, for it is already within it and
all that is needed for completion is God's blessing.

The Qur'an (30:21) assures us that Love and marriage are included in Allah's
many blessings by telling us "Among His signs is [the fact] that He has created
spouses for you among yourselves so that you may dwell in tranquility with
them, and He has planted love and mercy between you."

The Gospel of Paul reminds us that Love is Patent and kind, that it believes all
things, bears all things, hopes all things that love never fails.

This is a precious treasure in today's world. May you forever see the great gift
that you are to one another as truly a gift from God. May you take joy in
fulfilling your responsibilities to one another and to Allah by living the example
set by the Lord Jesus Christ, nurturing all that you have been given with
patience, kindness, and most of all love."

~ Invocation ~

"Heavenly Father,
We thank you for the gift of love
That you have bestowed upon Fatma and Eugene.
We ask that your blessings continue to grace their union
And be extended to their Family and Friends
Who have gathered here to celebrate this joyous event
May they forever dwell in the light of your love,
And flourish as the leaves on the trees
And the fruits of the vine."

~ The Rings ~

"May I have the rings please?"

rings are brought forward

"You are about to present a ring to each other. The wedding ring, a complete
circle, is the symbol of the completeness a husband and wife find in a marriage
relationship. The ring has no beginning and no end, just as true love is
never-ending. The ring also is made of precious metals, just as true love is a
precious treasure. As you place the wedding ring on each other's hand, may it
not only remind you of the endless love you possess for one another, but may
it also be a reminder of the precious gift God has given you to make you
complete."

~ Ring Vows ~

"Eugene, there are certain things that you can do to help to ensure that you and
Fatma live a long and happy life together.....

Do you promise that you will be for Fatma all that Allah expects husbands and
wives to be for one another? Do you promise to be her protection, her comfort,
her safe haven, to share with her in felicity, worship, charity and all righteous
endeavors? That you shall honor one another and the gift that you have been
given by partaking in a marriage that shall mirror the greatest bliss, which is the
good pleasure of Allah and by being a faithful and loving husband? And do you
take Fatma to be your wife?"

Eugene: "I do."

"Will you now place the ring on your beloved's finger and repeat after me?"

Eugene places the ring half way on to Fatma's finger

"I give you this ring.
Wear it with love and joy.
As this ring has no end,
Neither shall my love for you.
I choose you to be my wife
This day and forevermore
And I promise to love you
to infinity and beyond."

Eugene places the ring the rest of the way on to Fatma's finger

"Fatma, there are certain things that you can do to help to ensure that you and
Eugene live a long and happy life together.....

Do you promise that you will be for Eugene all that Allah expects husbands and
wives to be for one another? Do you promise to be her protection, her comfort,
her safe haven, to share with her in felicity, worship, charity and all righteous
endeavors? That you shall honor one another and the gift that you have been
given by partaking in a marriage that shall mirror the greatest bliss, which is the
good pleasure of Allah and by being a faithful and loving wife?
And do you take Fatma to be your husband?"

Fatma: "I do."

"Will you now place the ring on your beloved's finger and repeat after me?"

Fatma places the ring half way onto Eugene's finger

"I give you this ring.
Wear it with love and joy.
As this ring has no end,
Neither shall my love for you.
I choose you to be my wife
This day and forevermore
And I promise to love you
to infinity and beyond."

Fatma places the ring the rest of the way onto Eugene's finger

"Allah is Mighty and Wise, He hath promised to believers - men and women -
gardens under which rivers flow, to dwell therein, and beautiful mansions in
gardens of everlasting bliss; May your days together foreshadow that which is
beyond the happiness we on earth may know.

All praise and Thanks be to Allah, for you are now as your hearts have always
known you to be, Husband and Wife. You may kiss your beautiful Bride!"

Bride and Groom kiss and exit to greet their guests!