Joyce, our priest, is also a photographer. She took this one.
One of the features of this Scottish service is the notion of “handsel”, an old Saxon word meaning to “deliver into the hand”, a legal transfer, or a handing over with ceremony at the start of a new venture, which Joyce said our marriage was. The congregation (all three of them) said:
“We have witnessed the promises of Edward and Martha.
Together we now handsel them.
As they are pledged to each other in love,
so we promise, in hope,
to be a living sign of love in the world.”
Isn’t that lovely? And the final blessing, which we all said together:
Christ go before us to guide our steps
Christ be within us to kindle our vision
Christ shine from us to give joy to the world.
And the blessing of God almighty, Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, be with you and all those you love, now and always. Amen.
so happy for you! God bless and keep you both. I do love the final blessing and will say each day as a reminder of how to live. stay safe, much fun and love, Hollis
Your congratulations mean so much. You and several others were in my prayers during our wedding. With thoughts and prayers for you and yours. Love Martha and Mickey
I am so happy for both of you!! It was wonderful to watch that first weekend as you fell in love – I think – at first sight. I look forward to seeing you soon.
Ellen
Thanks Ellen. We are having a wonderful time here. We feel so loved and supported from “back home”. We look forward to seeing you too, in Apalachicola?! M & M