Ask the Experts

Home: Second Weddings: Second Marriage Wedding Vows:
Ideas for vows for renewal ceremony

jhuberzmp
New User

Post #1 of 2 (758 views)

Ideas for vows for renewal ceremony

My husband and I want to renew our wedding vows. We were married by the Justice of the Peace so we didn't have guests and we have been through so much. We have broken up many times and turned around and worked it out all over again. We want to renew our vows to celebrate what we have become as a couple, which took lots of work. We want to be able to have our family and friends help us celebrate a renewal. We have overcome many terials and tribulations and I am trying to find a great vow ceremony but I can't find anything. I know we can write our own vows, but I want to find a good poem or some kind of ceremony that I can read to give me ideas. We have 3 kids and we want them to be part of the cerremony.

(This post was edited by the_admin on May 25, 2009, 1:42 PM)

RevSusanna
INTERFAITH MINISTER & AUTHOR

Post #2 of 2 (748 views)

Re: [jhuberzmp] Ideas for vows for renewal ceremony [In reply to]

Renewing your vows after going through so much is a healing, affirming thing to do. It is also a wonderful example for your children.
There are many lovely vows, readings and rituals on this site, perfect for renewing your vows and including children. Having said that, if nothing appeals to you, I would suggest that you and your husband each prepare a personal statement to read to one another on pre-printed cards. No peeking beforehand! Here you can say what is in your hearts. In your statements, you may reflect on what you have been through, how you have come through it together, and where you are going.
Then your minister can ask you a more official question. Here is a vow that I read after one of my couples read a personal statement to one another:
Do you,_____, take, _____, to be your lawfully wedded wife before these witnesses? Do you vow to love, care for her/him as long as you both shall live? Do you take (name) with her/his faults and strengths, and offer yourself with your faults and strengths? Do you promise to help ____ when she/he needs help and turn to her/him when you need help? Do you promise this heart, mind, body and soul? Do you choose this woman/man as the person with whom to spend the rest of your life? (Response: I do.)

You can then have a candle lighting that includes your children.

This is but one example. However, you get the idea.
All blessings upon your renewal of vows ceremony!
Rev. Susanna
Reverend Susanna
Joining Hands and Hearts: Interfaith, Intercultural Wedding Celebrations : A Practical Guide for Couples

(This post was edited by RevSusanna on May 23, 2009, 5:42 PM)