Welcome! We are sailing here today with Trish and Peter to celebrate their wedding.
The presence of their family and friends adds particular poignancy and they appreciate that some of you
have traveled great distances to be here to share this special day with them.
Indeed, they are in awe of the forces of life--the twists and turns that have brought them together today to
begin their new adventure together.
One of the things that bond Trish and Peter together is their love of language and communication. So,
they've written much of this ceremony—not only to entwine, but also to entertain. And I wrote the really
funny stuff.
It is customary before we seal the deal for me to ask if anyone present can show just and legal cause why
these two should not be joined in marriage . . . let them jump overboard now.
Chupah
The chupah above us symbolizes the groom's commitment in their marriage to take care of all things
mechanical, and in this case Peter's extraordinary skill with tinker toys.
It is covered by a table cloth crocheted by Trish's mother and used by her mother and father to celebrate
many joyous occasions during their 40-year marriage.
Standing with us under the Chupah are Peter's brother John, and Trish's brother Jerry, sister-in-law Linda,
and niece Lisa.
Historically the chupah was a protective covering to guard bride and groom from evil spirits. It's a
welcoming tent open to the gentle breeze, warmth of the sun, and changes of the seasons signifying that
marriage is a haven in which souls nurture each other and spirits soar.
(The following was written by Rev. Karyl)
Some say love is lovelier the second time around but few take the risk. All of us, single people are so self-
sufficient nowadays: We've got our careers, our friends, our hobbies, our ratty bathrobes, and our Lean
Cuisine. If we don't feel like it, we don't have to shave our legs or our faces. We're single professionals
who are also professionally single.
So, what happens when two self-sufficient forces meet and a spark goes off that leads each of them to
forsake a single lifestyle they've each become so good at? Love happens, which is why we are here today.
Marriage at 20 usually means babies are a definite possibility. Marriage over forty doesn't mean babies -
although diapers are a definite possibillity.
Trish and Peter - at the moment you're as healthy as race horses – largely because you take care of
yourselves. But the commitment you are about to make implies you're vowing to take care of each other in
sickness as well as in health. And the commitment of two self - sufficient people really means you're also
agreeing to let the other person take care of you; a concept too terrifying to contemplate when you were
all alone in the world. So it must be love:
(the following written by the bride and groom)
How many men can stay in a one-bedroom apartment while their mates practice operatic exercises, hour
after hour--and still think that her voice sounds sweet? How many women can read, reread, re-re-read,
and re-re-re-read a manuscript and still consider it an exciting blockbuster? How many men who love to
cook can live with a woman who subsists on broccoli? How many women can offer more security than
Canadian health care? How many men have the magical combination of brains, brawn, wit, and charm-and
patience? How many women--with a simple look--can bestow inner peace?
And now Peter, Trish has prepared a surprise for you as a tribute to your special love and devotion. The
song is "I Love Thee" by Beethoven. I think that you'll recognize the voice. (Joan puts on tape of the bride
singing)
(the following written by Rev. Karyl)
Trish and Peter now it's time to tie the knot. This is your last chance to chicken out . . . But if do - you're
paying for my dress and then you''re walking the gangplank.
(the following written by the bride and groom)
Now, Trish and Peter will share the wine from this goblet. This wine is dedicated to their joy and serenity
and to all of those who have come to celebrate with them. (Trish/Peter take a sip of the wine.)
As you have now sipped from the goblet of wine, so may you in your married life bring many occasions to
celebrate and take comfort and happiness from the cup of life.
Vows
Trish--will you take Peter as your husband, to love, respect, and cherish forever--one day at a time? (I
shall.)
Peter--will you take Trish as your wife, to love, respect, and cherish forever--one day at a time? (I shall.)
Peter—"Trish, you are my treasure. It took me all of my life to find you and for the rest of my days, I will
hold you near me and protect you."
Trish—"Peter, you are my treasure. It took me all of my life to find you and for the rest of my days, I will
hold you near me and protect you."
Rings
The wedding ring is an unbroken circle symbolizing unending and everlasting love. Peter and Trish chose
this design because of its likeness to a special seafaring rope that is made of many interwoven strands
rendering it flexible and enduring.
(To be repeated by Trish and Peter): "With this ring I promise you my strength, flexibility and enduring
love."
Song by Marin (And This Is My Beloved)
Pronouncement
Trish and Peter, you have pronounced yourself husband and wife before your family and friends and have
given and pledged your promises to each other, and have declared your everlasting love by giving and
receiving rings.
By the authority vested in me by the State of California, I declare your marriage valid and binding and
rejoice to recognize you as husband and wife.
Breaking the Glass
(Rev. Karyl places packet under groom’s right foot)
There are several reasons why the groom breaks the wine goblet at the end of the wedding ceremony. It is
said that it signifies that the marriage will last longer than it would take to put the pieces back together. And
it ushers in the outbreak of merriment so, for this reason, after Peter shatters this glass let's all exclaim
Mazel Tov, which means: good luck!
(Peter shatters the glass. Everyone exclaims Mazel Tov!)
You may now kiss the bride.
(Captain Dave blows horn.)