The Hand Ceremony
Meaning - This ceremony emphasizes that couple will work together to build their new life and that each other should be their support
Time - about 3 to 5 minutes
Supplies – nothing; the couple will only join hands
Placement - This Ceremony Enhancement is done before the Ring Ceremony.
Example of the wording for this Enhancement:
Spoken by the Officiant
With our hands, we make and affect the things that surround us and shape our lives. They can be considered a representation of who we are through what we choose to do. In any relationship, our actions speak volumes. Words are not enough to bind two people together. Their actions and, thus, their hands, bind them together as well.
_____ and _____, Please take each other’s hands and together bring them upward near your hearts. Now look at each other’s hands for a moment, so that you may see the gift that they are to you.
These are the hands of your best friend, young and strong and full of love for you, that are holding yours on your wedding day as you promise to love each other today, tomorrow and forever.
These are the hands that will work along side yours as together you build your future.
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 hold you when fear or grief temporarily comes your way.
These are the hands that will countless times wipe the tears from your eyes, tears of sorrow and tears of joy.
These are the hands that will tenderly hold your children.
These are the hands that will give you support and encouragement to chase down your dreams.These are the hands that will hold you tight as you struggle through difficult times.
These are the hands that will give you strength when you need it.
These are the hands that will lift your chin and brush your cheek as they raise your face to look into eyes that are filled with overwhelming love for you.
And lastly, these are the hands that even when wrinkled and aged will still be reaching for yours, still giving you the same unspoken tenderness with just a touch.
_____, as an acknowledgment of this gift please gently kiss _____’s hands. _____ also as an acknowledgement of this gift please gently kiss _____’s hands.