Ideas for Wedding Ceremony Officiates
If you have been asked to perform a wedding for friends, family or perhaps even a co-worker, chances are you may be feeling a bit of pressure. However, modern society has changed the way weddings are performed, with some being quite informal. If you have questions on how to marry someone, we here at the Universal Life Church can help.
Ordainment Equals a Legal Marriage
If you are not already an ordained officiate, you need to become one. Once you have completed our online form and receive confirmation, you will have legal power to perform weddings. You also must make sure to sign the marriage license. This will require the signatures of the following people:
- The couple
- Two witnesses
- Yourself, as the officiate
A marriage license plays an important role in providing the couple with the legal benefits of marriage as well as providing proof of their vows to commitment.
Modern Day Ceremonies
Today's wedding ceremonies are occurring in churches, parks, mountaintops, hotel convention rooms, beaches and courthouses. Due to some of the less traditional locations, couples are also toning down their ceremonies. As an officiate, you may find yourself reading quotes from movies or books rather than religious scriptures. You may also be asked to give a small speech about the couple. This may involve telling the guests how they met or sharing a favorite memory from their past.
The Exchanging of the Vows and Rings
One task that must be performed by you as the Officiant at any wedding is the exchanging of the vows and rings. Better known as the Declaration of Intent, this involves you asking the couple any form of the following questions:
- Do you take_______ to be your lawfully wedded______, to have and to hold, to love and to comfort, in sickness and health, in good times and bad, 'til death do you part?
- Do you take_______ to be your lawfully wedded______, in the bonds of matrimony? If so, answer, "I do."
- Do you take ________ to be your lawfully wedded________, keeping yourself solely unto him/her, 'til death do you part?
From the process to becoming ordained and representing the state where the ceremony will be held, to reading verses and the correct exchanges, the role of officiate can be overwhelming. If you are asked to officiate a wedding and still have questions about how to marry someone, please contact us and let us help you unite the happy couple.
