Page 429 - Special Occasion Prayers

Holy Matrimony 429
crown / You have promised Your servants. Be gracious to the
parents and the dear ones / who raised this couple in Your love,
and bless all who participate in this sacred ceremony. Father, Son
and Holy Spirit, / Lord of all, forever.

ALL: Amen.

The witnesses come forward and stand beside the couple.

SER: Dear brothers and sisters, the bride and the groom / are go-
ing to be united / in the sacrament of holy matrimony. The cele-
brant prays for himself / that he may administer this sacrament
worthily. In reverence and attentiveness, let us now pray in si-
lence.

CEL: O God, who, in the beginning, / blessed man with a life
partner, we praise Your eternal providence. Strengthen me, Your
servant, to administer worthily this sacrament / that binds this
bride and groom in love. Shower upon me Your abundant graces.
Father, Son and Holy Spirit, Lord of all, forever.

ALL: Amen.

THE NUPTIAL COVENANT

CEL: … (Name of the bridegroom) In compliance with the Law
of Christ / and in accord with the teachings of the Church, with
free will and full consent, / do you take … (Name of the bride),
as your wife?

Bridegroom: Yes, I do.

CEL: … (Name of the bride) In compliance with the Law of
Christ / and in accord with the teachings of the Church, / with
free will and full consent, do you take … (Name of the bride-
groom) as your husband?

Bride: Yes, I do.

CEL: (To the witnesses) Are you witnesses to this?

Witnesses: Yes, we are.

CEL: (To the couple) As a symbol of this nuptial covenant, you
may now join your right hands.