WEDDING SERVICE PLANNER
OPENING WORDS & PRAYER OF INVOCATION
Everything has a beginning. Once the people are assembled and the wedding party is in place, the wedding service begins with an introduction of some form that states “why are we here and what are we are going to be about”. Also the opportunity is used to ask if there are any “lawful impediments” to the marriage. In our experience thus far, this portion of the service has always being met with a welcome silence!
There is normally a prayer of invocation. The assumption being made throughout this planner is that the couple being married wish, in fact, to do so before God and their witnesses. That they desire a spiritual blessing on their life together. The type of prayers included in this planner, are for the most part, specifically “Christian”. It is possible to alter the prayers to respect the particular beliefs of the couple and their faith heritage.
OPENING WORDS STYLE ONE
We are gathered here today in the presence of God, as friends and family to witness the marriage of – Full Name – and – Full Name – and to ask God to bless them.
It is written: “Unless the Lord builds the house, those who build it labour in vain.” It is also written: “In all your ways acknowledge God, and he will make straight your paths”
– Name – and – Name – you have signified your desire to enter into the holy state of marriage, and no one has shown just cause why you may not. If either of you know of any lawful impediment why you may not be married, I charge you now, before God, the Searcher of all hearts, to declare it………..
OPENING WORDS STYLE TWO
We are here on a very special occasion – to witness and to thank God for the union of – Full Name – and – Full Name – in the bonds of Holy Matrimony.
It is written in Holy Scripture that “Unless the Lord builds the house, those who build it labour in vain.” It is also written, “In all you ways acknowledge God, and he will make straight your paths”.
– Name – and – Name – you have signified your desire to enter into the holy state of marriage, and no one has shown just cause why you may not. If either of you know of any lawful impediment why you may not be married, I charge you now, before God, the Searcher of all hearts, to declare it………..
OPENING WORDS STYLE THREE
Dearly beloved, we are here assembled, in the presence of God and these witnesses, to join together this man,
– Full Name – and this woman – Full Name – in holy marriage, which is blessed by our Lord Jesus Christ, governed by God’s commandments, and is to be held in high honour among all people. Therefore it is not to be entered into unadvisedly or lightly; but reverently, discreetly, and in awe of God.
– Name – and – Name – you have signified your desire to enter into the holy state of marriage, and no one has shown just cause why you may not. If either of you know of any lawful impediment why you may not be married, I charge you now, before God, the Searcher of all hearts, to declare it………..
OPENING WORDS STYLE FOUR
Family and friends, I welcome you to this day of celebration.
– Name and Name – have invited us here to this place to share in their declaration of lifelong commitment to each other. Your blessings, support, and encouragement are important to this union, not only now, but in the days and years to come.
Amidst the turmoil of our world, with all of life’s struggles and concerns, it is with deep joy and a sense of wonder and awe that we pause to affirm the power of love.
As we gather to witness the union of – Name and Name – we also celebrate the blessings we all cherish in our intimate relationships. This ceremony calls us all to renew our vows of love and commitment to one another.
– Name – and – Name – you have signified your desire to enter into the holy state of marriage, and no one has shown just cause why you may not. If either of you know of any lawful impediment why you may not be married, I charge you now, before God, the Searcher of all hearts, to declare it………..
INVOCATION STYLE ONE (traditional)
Let us pray — Almighty and everlasting God, in whom we live and move and have our being: grant unto us purity of heart and strength of purpose, so that no selfish passion may hinder us from knowing your will, and no weakness from doing it; that in your light we may see light, and in your service find perfect freedom through Jesus Christ our Lord. Be present at this hour and grant that what is said and done in this place may be blessed, both now and forevermore. Amen
INVOCATION STYLE TWO (reform)
Let us Pray: O God, you are the creator of all things. You make us and you sustain us; we depend you. Grant unto us all purity of heart and strength of purpose, so that no selfish passion may hinder us from knowing your will and no weakness from doing it.
Bless – Name – and Name – as they come before you to join in holy wedlock and help us to rejoice with them and support them in all their endeavors. We ask it in Jesus’ name. Amen.
by Rev. Richard J. Fairchild & Rev. Brett Blair
This article may not be written by an Apostolic author, but it contains many excellent principles and concepts that can be adapted to most churches. As the old saying goes, “Eat the meat. Throw away the bones.”
