Affirmation of Intentions
 

This element of the ceremony is important because it asks the couple to proclaim their desire for commitment, and it affirms for the entire assembly that the couple understands the step they are taking and is freely entering into commitment without reservation.
This element is required by the Marriage Act.


Sample 1

_______ and _______, you have invited us to witness the happiness you have found in each other. Are you ready to make the pledges through which you commit yourselves to each other in love?

Reply: We are.


Sample 2

_______ and _______, you have carefully considered the beauty of the obligations assumed when lives are wed. Are you now prepared to enter into this covenant of love/marriage?

Reply: We are.


Sample 3

_______ and _______, do you come in freedom and without reservation to give yourselves to each other in marriage?

Reply: We do.


I,_____,do solemnly declare that I do not know of any lawful impediment why I, ____,may not be joined in matrimony to_____.

I call upon these persons here present to witness that I, ______, do take you, ____ to be my lawful wedded wife (or to be my lawful wedded husband or to be my lawful wedded partner or to be my lawful wedded spouse),