Wedding time

Going to the chapel (kind of) 'cause she's gonna get married...

The women have arrived! And can we just take a minute to admire how stunning they all are? The flower crowns, the white dresses (although one bridesmaid did quip that they look like they're all getting married in some freak cult), the explosion of color from the flowers...?

And the bride. A most beautiful, glowing bride. This day is the fruition of much work. You did well, dear.

The ceremony was beautiful with so much symbolism. And thanks to the priests and their words which have been repeated for centuries, the happy couple has  no choice but to be fruitful and multiply. And if you think this doesn't work, may I remind you that my grandfather, who married John and me, prayed that our home would be open and welcoming. Look how that turned out.

*The crowns used in the ceremony symbolize the glory and honor that God bestows upon His faithful people. The white ribbon attaching the crowns symbolizes the marital unity that the bride and groom will enter into in marraiage. The bride and groom are crowned as king and queen of their own household, which they must rule responsibly, with love and wisdom. They also symbolize martyrdom and sacrifice which are also qualities of a good marriage, in imitation of Christ sacrificing Himself for us.

The priest joins the right hands of the bride and groom while saying a prayer asking God to unite them in oneness of mind and heart. The bride and groom keep their hands joined throughout the rest of the service to symbolize their unity as a couple.

The priest leads the bride and groom around the wedding table as an expression of joy and celebration. They hymns during this procession specifically refer to Isaiah prophesying the birth of Christ. They also bring to mind the apostles and the early Christian martyrs who bore witness to Christ and His Gospel by their preaching, teaching, and even the sacrifice of their own lives. Demonstrating their commitment to this way of life, the couple take their first steps as husband and wife united in Christ.

Because of corona (which is why none of these mandated children will be named Cory, Rona, or Ronnie), many had to watch online but we're thankful for the technology available so that Mariana's 99 year old great grandmother, paternal grandmother, and many others could watch online. Some went all out, even hosting their own wedding feast while watching the ceremony.

Pictures.

It's a tradition now.

Thanks Andrew and Sarah, for starting this.

On to the reception.

*Explanation credit: Monica Chilbert and Jacob Kurtz