Example #1:
(This is from a Celtic Pagan Handfasting):
Officiant: Will you seek to do her/him harm?
Both Answer: I will not.
Officiant: And if harm is done, will you seek to repair it?
Both Answer: I will.
Officiant: Will you seek to be honest with her/him in all things?
Both Answer: I will.
Officiant: Will you support him/her in times of distress?
Both Answer: I will.
Officiant: Will you temper your words and actions with love?
Both Answer: I will.
Officiant: These things you have promised to your partner, before this company and God. May you ever be mindful and strive to keep the vows you have spoken. And to these promises you are both bound.
Example #2:
(This is from a Christian Handfasting):
Reading: Ecclesiastes 4: 9-12
“Two are better off than one, because together, they can work effectively. If one of them falls down, the other can help him up... Two people can resist an attack that would defeat one person alone. A rope made of three cords is hard to break.”
Officiant: The three cords I hold in my hand are a symbol of the love that will join ___________ and __________ for the rest of their lives. The first cord represents ___________, the second is for _____________, and the third, of course, is a symbol of the presence of God in their lives.
____________ and __________, please hold the hands of your beloved. (The Officiant loosely ties their hands together, and holds them.)
“As your hands are bound together now,
so your lives and spirits are joined in a union of love and trust.
Above you are the stars and below you is the earth.
Like the stars your love should be a constant source of light,
and like the earth, a firm foundation from which to grow.
May your union always be made stronger by the presence of our Lord."
The Officiant slowly unties the cords.
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