The Celebration and
Blessing of a Marriage

*At the time appointed, the persons to be married, with their witnesses, 
assemble in the church or some other appropriate place.*

*During their entrance, a hymn, psalm, or anthem may be sung, or 
instrumental music may be played.*

*Then the Celebrant, facing the people and the persons to be married, 
with the woman to the right and the man to the left, addresses the 
congregation and says*

Dearly beloved: We have come together in the presence of 
God to witness and bless the joining together of this man and 
this woman in Holy Matrimony.  The bond and covenant of 
marriage was established by God in creation, and our Lord 
Jesus Christ adorned this manner of life by his presence and 
first miracle at a wedding in Cana of Galilee.  It signifies to us 
the mystery of the union between Christ and his Church, and 
Holy Scripture commends it to be honored among all people.

The union of husband and wife in heart, body, and mind is 
intended by God for their mutual joy; for the help and comfort 
given one another in prosperity and adversity; and, when it is 
God's will, for the procreation of children and their nurture 
in the knowledge and love of the Lord.  Therefore marriage is 
not to be entered into unadvisedly or lightly, but reverently, 
deliberately, and in accordance with the purposes for which it 
was instituted by God.