If there are no attendants the rings should be given to the officiant before the service begins.
A
A circle is the symbol of the sun and the earth and the universe, of wholeness and perfection and peace. The rings you give and receive this day are the symbols of endless love and unity into which you enter today.
-Kenneth L. Patton
B
May these rings be forever the symbol of the unbroken circle of love. Love freely given has no beginning and no end. Love freely given has no giver and no receiver, for each is the giver and each is the receiver. May these rings remind you always of the vows you have taken here today.
-Rudolph W. Nemser
C
The ring symbolizes the unbroken circle of endless love. It is worn on the third finger because of an ancient Greek belief that a
vein (the "vena amoris," or vein of love) from that finger connected directly to the heart, thus symbolizing the depth and sincerity of love.
-Edwin A. Lane
D
The metal in these rings has little real value except in its use today. These words are gone as I say them, but as I say them your lives are changed forever. You are born to trouble and to joy; and this is your greatest opportunity-that the greatest of gifts are yours for the risk of asking. We are to witness now the sealing of your promises with these rings, sign and token before the world of the world you will create-single, whole and quiet-within the world outside. Together you are one; as one you are a world.
-James Lawson
E
Round like the earth, bright as the skies, and created by human hands, these rings symbolize a good foundation to your married lives in the days to come. They call from you the human craft of loving. As you give, receive, and wear these rings, remember the vows between you made.
Ring Vows
The ring is placed on the finger and held in place as the vow is given. These vows can be lined out after the minister or memorized. Note that J under Marriage Vows combines the ring vows and marriage vows into one vow.
A
, with this ring I wed you (or I thee wed) and pledge my faithful love.
B
, with this ring I marry you, and to you I will be true as long as we both shall live.
C
, with this ring I marry you and join my life with yours.
D
, I give you this ring in token and pledge of our abiding affection for each other.
E
, I take you as my spouse. Accept this ring as sign of my love and constancy for the years ahead. We shall share together the portion of trouble and sorrow that life may grant us. And we shall rejoice together in what may be our measure of plenty and goodness, affection and peace.
F
, in token and pledge of our abiding faith and growing love, I give you this ring.
