Handfasting
Jon: Tara, take Philip’s hands palms up, so you may see the gift that they are to you. These hands are young, strong and vibrant with love. These are the hands of your best friend that are holding yours on your wedding day, as he promises to love you all the days of his life.
Now Philip, please take Tara’s hands, palms up, so you may see the gift that they are to you. These hands are smooth, young, and carefree. These are the hands of your best friend that are holding yours on your wedding day, as she promises to love you all the days of her life.
Now, please join hands so that they may be fasted in the ways of old.
[Cords are held aloft]
The love already shared by your hearts has been strengthened by the vows you have taken. You will be bound by your love as you are bound by your clasped hands from now until the end of your days.
[The couples hands are wrapped with cords and then the following is recited]
These are the hands that will passionately love you and cherish you through the years, and with the slightest touch will comfort you like no other.
These are the hands that will work alongside yours, as you build your future together.
These are the hands that will hold you whenever illness, fear, or grief may find you.
These are the hands that will give you strength when you need it.
These are the hands that will tenderly hold your children.
These are the hands that, even when wrinkled and aged, will still be reaching for yours.
[The cords are then knotted]
God, please bless these hands that you see before you this day. May they always reach out with love, gentleness, and respect. May they build a loving relationship that lasts a lifetime. May they always be held by one another.
Now, you may remove the cords, but remember the knot as a lasting symbol of your binding and commitment.
[Cords are removed, stowed]
To be continued!
Photos courtesy of Howie Hartman of Double H Media.
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