MINISTER: Would the immediate families of (Bride) and (Groom) please rise? (PAUSE) This is an important day for the families of (Bride) and (Groom). And so, I ask you: Do you bless them as they are married to each other?

RESPONSE: WE DO!

MINISTER: Will the other family members and friends of (Bride) and (Groom) please rise? (PAUSE) You are here today to witness this marriage. And so, I ask you: Will you encourage them and support them in their marriage?

RESPONSE:WE WILL

MINISTER:Let us pray for the families of (Bride) and (Groom) who have given their blessing to this union: LET US PRAY! O God our Father, who in infinite wisdom has provided families as the protecting and nurturing units of our natural existence, We thank you for the families (Bride) and (Groom), for the strength, character, and joy which they have shared with them through the years. Thank you also for such good friends, whose love and friendship has mutually enriched each others' lives. IN YOUR NAME WE PRAY, AMEN!

SELECTION TWO (MINOR CHILDREN STILL LIVING AT HOME)

MINISTER:(To the new step-parent) (Name), will you promise to guide, nurture, and love (names of children) with unfaltering devotion? Will you care for (him/her/them) as your own from this day forward?

RESPONSE: I WILL!

MINISTER:  (addressing children from previous relationships) (Names of Children), You are entering a new family! Will you give to this new family, your trust, love, and affection?

RESPONSE: (I/WE) WILL

MINISTER:Let us pray for (this/these) (child/children) who (is/are) entering this new family life: LET US PRAY! O God, Father of us all, we ask you to bless with your great love (this/these) wonderful child/children____________________________________). They deserve the warmth, security, and environment of a loving family. Give to this new family unit, the peace and power and love which you have promised to all of us, Your Children! IN YOUR NAME WE PRAY, AMEN!

SELECTION THREE (ADULT CHILDREN)

MINISTER: (Groom), Is there anything else special you would like to promise (Bride)?

GROOM: (Bride), As I pledge you my love and promise to be a good husband, I also promise to love and support (names of children), and to treat them as if they were my own. I welcome (names of children) into my heart and my home.

MINISTER: (Bride), Is there anything else special you would like to promise (Groom)?

BRIDE: (Groom), As I pledge you my love and promise to be a good wife, I also promise to love and support (names of children), and to treat them as if they were my own. I welcome (names of children) into my heart and my home.