The first marriage ceremony, certificate and celebration was performed by yours truly last Saturday. My friends Jeff and Polly(who are responsible for this whole ordained minister title) became the first to be enrolled into “The Church of the Shimmering Water” as a married couple. A wonderful gathering of family and friends witnessed the event and the following reception with a great show of love and support. It was truly an honor to be involved in such an important part of the new couple’s lives together. Here are the words of short ceremony. Give the couple a congrats if you haven’t already!

Greetings and a warm welcome to you all.

We are gathered together today to unite Polly and Jeff as partners in life.

Marriage can only be entered into with a deep realization of its obligations and responsibilities. I know that Jeff and Polly truly understand that love, loyalty and understanding are the foundations of a happy home.

Every relationship is different. Polly and Jeff, as you ride the roller coaster of life and marriage, the challenges will be many.  As you face these challenges together, here are a few thoughts to ponder.

-Hug,,,,,often— its powers are healing.

– listen……think……..then communicate. Try to solve problems with your wisdom, not your emotions.  Knee jerk reactions often are painful.

-Do your best to keep anger locked away. This negative emotion rarely produces any positive results.

-Never forget the words “I am Sorry”

-Say or do something often for your spouse that lets them know you love them.

-Sometimes we all need our own space. Build an extra house or maybe a shed.

-lies, deception and thievery are for politicians not for married people in love. and finally…………..

-As fate spins away the years you will understand more clearly the importance of companionship. Cherish it NOW, for far too quickly it slips away.

It has been my pleasure to watch this relationship blossom and grow. From the cat meets the dog, to the beginning of new jobs and the ending of old. From the late night fly tying sessions to the afternoons spent fishing on the stream. Your personalities are well suited. Passion, honesty and generosity are strongly built into your characters. Use these qualities to make each other happy.

I understand that the Bride and Groom have written their own personal vows. The vows have been written from their hearts. It is as it should be.

By the authority vested in me by the State of Minnesota I now pronounce you Husband and Wife. Please take this moment to share your first kiss as a married couple.

 

As a gift for performing the ceremony the bride and groom gifted me a beautifully hand crafted Chickadee knife specially crafted for trout anglers. It is breathtaking and forged from the beauty and design of the natural world. The maker is Jason Raybuck and his site is worth a look for all of you that understand quality, function and the love of the outdoors.  As a long standing tradition when knives or blades are given as gifts when friendships are involved, a shiny penny was given in payment for this beautiful tool as an assurance that the friendship shall never be severed.