Protestant CeremonyProtestant marriages, regardless of denomination, have far fewer requirements and restrictions than catholic marriages. An informational meeting with the clergy is required, but pre-marital
counselling is optional. And there is no need for an annulment if either party has been divorced.
The protestant religion encompasses many different denominations, but the basic element of the marriage
ceremony is the same. The seating arrangement is basically the same plus the order of the processional and recessional.
Here’s a brief overview of what to expect:
Guests to be seated
Bridal March
The ceremony begins; members of the wedding day party walk down the aisle.
Welcome
The minister /celebrant offers a prayer and will declare the purpose of marriage before asking, as the law requires, if anyone knows any reason why the marriage cannot lawfully take place.
Opening Prayer
A prayer and blessing is said.
Hymn 1
Hymns can also be sung during the ceremony.
There is a Giving in Marriage (affirmation by parents.)
Declaration of Intent:
You’ll be asked to promise before God, your families and friends that you will love, comfort, honour and protect each other and be faithful as long as you both shall live.
Blessing of Rings:
The celebration of the Lord’s Supper takes place.
Lighting of the unity Candle.
Scripture messages are read- either at the beginning or in the
middle of the service. There is usually at least one reading.
1st Scripture Lesson
2nd Scripture Lesson
Hymn 2
the second hymn is sung.
Marriage vows- Vows and rings are exchanged. Turning to each other, you then make the age-old vows, which have changed very little in 800 years:
To have and to hold,
From this day forward,
For better, for worse,
For richer, for poorer,
In sickness and in health,
To love and to cherish,
Till death us do part.
As each of you speaks you hold your partner’s right hand,
symbolising that you are joining together in a new life.
Marriage Counsel/preaching.
Signing of Marriage Certificate.
Announcements by MC.
Hymn 3.
Benediction.
Presentation of the Couple.
Recession.
The benediction is given.
The recessional takes place.
From this day forward,
For better, for worse,
For richer, for poorer,
In sickness and in health,
To love and to cherish,
Till death us do part.
As each of you speaks you hold your partner’s right hand,
symbolising that you are joining together in a new life.
Marriage Counsel/preaching.
Signing of Marriage Certificate.
Announcements by MC.
Hymn 3.
Benediction.
Presentation of the Couple.
Recession.
The benediction is given.
The recessional takes place.
