Declaration of Intent for a Christian Wedding
Introduction
Before vows are spoken, a Christian wedding begins with a moment of holy clarity: the declaration of intent. This is the point in the ceremony when the couple publicly states their desire to enter into marriage, not only before God and their community, but also in the way required by law. Every legally recognized wedding must include this declaration or its equivalent.
Yet the declaration is more than a legal step. It is a spiritual one. It names the heart’s intention: to join their lives before God, to seek Christ’s guidance, and to commit themselves to a covenant shaped by love and faithfulness.
The following options offer wording that is reverent, clear, and ceremony-ready. Each can be used exactly as written or adapted to reflect the couple’s voice and tradition.
1. Traditional Christian Declaration
Officiant:
[name], will you have [name] to be your husband/wife,
to live together in the covenant of marriage?
Will you love, comfort, honor, and keep him/her,
in sickness and in health,
and forsaking all others,
be faithful to him/her as long as you both shall live?
Response:
I will.
2. Christ-Centered Declaration of Intent
Officiant:
[name], trusting in God’s grace,
do you choose [name] to be your husband/wife?
Will you walk with him/her in faith,
pray with him/her,
and seek Christ’s love as the foundation of your home
for all the days of your life?
Response:
I will, with God’s help.
3. Scripture-Shaped Declaration (Rooted in Covenant Themes)
Officiant:
[name], do you intend to join your life with [name],
remaining faithful in all seasons —
in joy and in sorrow,
in abundance and in need,
as companions in the grace God gives?
Response:
I do.
4. Contemporary Christian Declaration
Officiant:
[name], do you choose [name] freely and joyfully
to be your husband/wife?
Will you encourage him/her,
listen with compassion,
stand with him/her in trials,
and celebrate every good gift you share?
Response:
I do, and I will.
5. Mutual Christian Declaration (for both partners)
Officiant:
[name] and [name],
do you intend to enter this marriage
with love, faith, and wholehearted commitment,
promising to honor one another
and to seek God’s wisdom in all things?
Response (together):
We do.
See Also
Christian Wedding Ceremony Script
Wedding Ceremony Script for Officiants
Christian Wedding Ceremony Order and Outline
5 Opening Prayers for a Wedding Ceremony
4 Closing Prayers for a Wedding Ceremony
12 Bible Verses for a Wedding Ceremony
10 Scripture Readings for a Wedding
Wedding Vows for a Christian Ceremony
Declaration of Intent for a Christian Wedding
Wedding Sermon: Love as Christ Loved the Church
Wedding Sermon on 1 Corinthians 13
