July 1, 2024
“And may the Lord make you increase and abound in love for one another and for all, just as we abound in love for you.” ~ 1 Thessalonians 3:12 NRSV
Here is one more unique wedding ceremony story. The couple added something I’ve never seen before. The couple placed a family blessing of the wedding rings right before the exchange of vows. and rings. The Best man handed the two rings to the family members sitting in the front row. I invited them to hold the rings, perhaps say a prayer or blessing for the couple, and then pass it to the next person until it’s gotten all the way across the row.
The family members held the rings, looked at them, warming them with their hands, some bowed their heads in prayer, and more than one person anointed the rings with tears. Then the Best Man handed the rings to me. Rings are a reminder of love, a reminder that their marriage continues without interruption throughout the couples’ lives. In this case, they are reminders of the loved ones who held, warmed, prayed, and wept tears of joy for the couple up to this point, and who will support and encourage them in the years ahead.
May God make increase and abound in love for each other. That can change the world! ~ Anne
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