One of the biggest parts of the wedding ceremony is “The Vows”. Let’s face it, it’s what everyone came to hear. You can have nice prayers or readings in your ceremony, but what everyone leans into, and what gives everyone a tear in their eye is the words you say to your partner. And this is the framework for how you will treat your partner for the rest of your life, so it better be good. No pressure!
A Marriage Mission Statement is a vision for what you want your marriage to be. Done well, it will help shape the next generation too, as the stronger YOUR relationship is the greater security and stability you will offer as an example to the youngsters in your life. A Marriage Mission Statement is an expression of your core values of life for your primary relationship. It will reflect your priorities and enshrine what’s important to you as a visual reminder to you as a couple, so that on those hard days it will serve as a tool to keep focused on what matters most.
It might seem simple, but keeping family traditions is fundamental to your marriage and family life. Whether you realize it or not, traditions strengthen marital bonds by providing a solid structure, a sense of continuity, and a feeling of belonging. They are crucial in providing support through life’s transitions by creating deeper commitment in times of joy and celebrations, and also offering comfort through crises, disappointments, and losses. Most of all, meaningful traditions contribute to the emotional health, self-esteem, and self-respect of both the individual and couple.
When we gather together for Easter Sunday as Christians, we are acknowledging the sacrifice of Jesus on the Cross. We are giving our devotion and gratitude to Him in return for His gift of everlasting life to us. But we also need to celebrate our own lives in this time and this place without forgetting what He did for us.
We do this by gathering together as a faith community, and taking in His Holy Spirit as sustenance for this world and the next. How do we do that exactly? By taking the Sacrament of Holy Communion. This Easter Sunday, let’s consider all that this sacred act in the name of Christ has to offer us in this world.
Each year we remind ourselves of His story when, in ancient times, the people asked for a savior. Someone to help them find their way in uncertain times. Someone to help ease their day-to-day suffering. Someone to help them not only find their own salvation, but also to be a beacon of love for the whole world and everyone in it, unconditionally. And that prayer was answered through the birth of Jesus, granting all of us the opportunity to also receive eternal life if we only allow Him to be born in our hearts. What an incredible gift.
Magic on the Madison I have always said that “Nature is my church” even before I had started officiating weddings. When you’re in the forest or near a body of water, it only takes a few moments of stillness observing
Courage and Love Go Hand in Hand – For As Long As They Both Shall Live It is such a privilege and blessing to officiate for so many wonderful couples over the last several years. I have ventured into the
The Way of the Cross – A Path to Salvation Another Easter Sunday is upon us and we are shown the miracle of life after death. The Earth has been quiet for many months, perceivably dead under a blanket of
Marriage Values: How Do You and Your Spouse Measure Up? If you and your partner are in a loving relationship, chances are, you’re probably eager to make it last. Although every partnership is different, relationships are more likely to succeed
Religion vs Spirituality: Which Is Best for Your Marriage? When you decide to get married you get to sort through all kinds of questions. Who will be in your wedding party? What will the dress code be? Where will you