Question Of Intent

This is a very traditional part of the ceremony and is often omitted in contemporary services. Here is where the minister questions the bride and groom about their intentions to marry. This is also the place where the question can be asked if any one could give reason why this man and woman should not be wed.

Example 1

Minister says to Groom: "Do you, (Groom)________________, come here of your own free will to take (Bride)_______________ as your wedded wife?"

Groom says: "I Do."

Minister says to Bride: "Do you, (Bride)________________, come here of your own free will to take (Groom)_______________ as your wedded husband?"

Bride says: "I Do."

Minister says: "If either of you or anyone in this assembly knows any just cause why this marriage should not be performed, let him speak now, or forever hold his peace."

Minister says: "Who then, in the name of Jesus Christ our Lord, doth give this woman to wed?"

Father of the Bride says: "I, her father do give this woman to wed." He shakes the hand of the groom, who then extends his arm to his bride.

Example 2

Minister: The covenant of marriage is sacred. It is not to be entered into unadvisedly or lightly but reverently, discreetly, advisedly, and soberly. Into this holy estate, (Groom)____________ and (Bride)____________ come to be joined. Is it your desire now to continue in this sacred ceremony, and do you solemnly promise that the vows you are about to take reflect your true inner feelings?

Groom and Bride say: I do

Minister says: "If either of you or anyone in this assembly knows any just cause why this marriage should not be performed, let him speak now, or forever hold his peace."

Minister says: "Who then, in the name of Jesus Christ our Lord, doth give this woman to wed?"

Father of the Bride says: "I, her father do give this woman to wed." He shakes the hand of the groom, who then extends his arm to his bride.

Example 3

Minister: (Groom)____________ and (Bride)____________, have you come here to offer yourselves to each other in the presence of a gracious and loving God who has brought you to this day and this holy moment? Have you come here freely and without reservation to give yourselves to each other in the holy state of matrimony?

Groom and Bride say: I do

Minister says: "If either of you or anyone in this assembly knows any just cause why this marriage should not be performed, let him speak now, or forever hold his peace."

Minister says: "Who then, in the name of Jesus Christ our Lord, doth give this woman to wed?"

Father of the Bride says: "I, her father do give this woman to wed." He shakes the hand of the groom, who then extends his arm to his bride.