Page 39 - BMIN191 Beginnning Internship

The Tasks of Ministry 39

cultures use an exchange of coins as a pledge of financial intent and commitment
to one another. Other ideas include various ways to symbolize the families
involved and their promise to support this union. Typically, this is done by the
giving of the bride. It is likely that the ceremony will open with a senior member
of the bride’s family, usually her father, presenting the bride to her groom, thus
demonstrating the affirmation her family gives to the union.
Sometimes bride and groom will add symbols of expression to one another
or to their families. Flowers, candles, and gifts are all among the ways such
expressions are demonstrated.
At the end of the ceremony, the symbol of the bridal kiss demonstrates
that the marriage is now established. While the pronouncement is the actual
moment of marriage, the bridal kiss symbolizes this moment and, as such, should
immediately follow the pronouncement. This culminating physical act also varies
with each culture.
When it comes to symbols, the minister should give freedom to the couple to
design their wedding as they wish, provided the symbols are consistent with the
commitments they are making. While creativity and fun have a place in such a
celebration, the minister’s role is to lovingly assist so that the fun-loving acts of
other members present do not detract from the special moments planned by the
bride, groom, and their respective families.
The Communication
Again, weddings will vary, but most weddings include some communication, to
both the couple and the congregation. The address to the congregation is typically
the beginning statement of welcome and explanation of the day’s event. The
minister can use this moment to instruct the congregation in their role as witnesses
and fellow celebrants. The minister can also offer some teaching concerning the
nature of marriage or any personal words concerning the couple.
The address to the couple is the minister’s opportunity to express those things that
will make marriage successful. God’s Word is the valuable source to use to instruct
the two lives in the nature of the commitment, the true concept of love, and so on.
Couples often give the minister latitude in this area, but it is wisdom to be brief in
this portion of the service. After all, it is the day of the bride and groom.
Putting it Together
Again, weddings will vary, but each occasion should include the following
elements:
• address to congregation
• giving of the bride
• address to couple
• prayer
• declaration of intent
• vows
• symbols
• prayer
• pronouncement
• bridal kiss
(Sample ceremonies are included in Appendix A.)