Christian Wedding Ceremony Resources
Scripts, prayers, readings, vows, and wedding sermons for pastors and officiants, arranged in the order they happen in the service. Tap a step to open it, or start with a complete ceremony script. These are resources I've written over three decades of ministry. Congrats to the happy couple and may the God of love bless and keep them.
Start hereComplete Ceremony Scripts
3 resources
Complete Ceremony Scripts
The whole service in one place, for planning with the couple or leading the ceremony.
Step 1Opening Prayer
1 resource
Opening Prayer
The service begins by gathering everyone before God and asking for the Spirit's presence.
Step 2Declaration of IntentRequired
1 resource
Declaration of IntentRequired
Before the vows, the couple states publicly that they freely intend to marry, and the gathered community pledges its support. This is the one part of the ceremony that cannot be left out: in most states, the couple's spoken consent before the officiant is what makes the marriage legal. Requirements vary, so check with the local marriage license office.
Step 3Scripture Readings
4 resources
Scripture Readings
Usually one to three passages, often chosen with the couple.
Step 4Wedding Sermon or Homily
8 resources
Wedding Sermon or Homily
A short word on the readings and on the covenant the couple is about to make.
Step 5Vows
2 resources
Vows
The couple's promises to each other, spoken before God and the congregation.
Step 6Prayers for the Couple
4 resources
Prayers for the Couple
Intercession for the new marriage, the bride, the groom, and the families joined today.
Step 7Unity CandleOptional
1 resource
Unity CandleOptional
A symbolic act some couples add after the vows.
Step 8Blessing and Closing Prayer
2 resources
Blessing and Closing Prayer
The pastor pronounces the couple married, asks God's blessing on their life together, and sends them out with a closing prayer.
Common Questions
What is the order of a Christian wedding ceremony?
Most Christian weddings follow this pattern: an opening prayer, the declaration of intent, Scripture readings, a short sermon, the vows and exchange of rings, prayers for the couple, and finally the pronouncement, blessing, and closing prayer. The ceremony order and outline lays it out in full.
What is the difference between the declaration of intent and the vows?
In the declaration of intent, the couple answers questions asked by the pastor, stating before everyone that they freely intend to marry. In the vows, they speak directly to each other and make their promises. See the declaration of intent and the wedding vows.
Is the declaration of intent required?
Yes. Readings, a sermon, and a unity candle are all optional, but the declaration of intent is not. In most states, the couple's spoken declaration of consent before the officiant, and often before witnesses, is what makes the marriage legal. Laws vary by state, so the officiant should confirm the requirements with the local marriage license office before the wedding. The declaration of intent gives wording you can use.
How long should a wedding sermon be?
Short. Most wedding sermons run five to ten minutes. The couple and guests are ready to celebrate, and a brief, focused word on one reading lands better than a full Sunday sermon. A short Christian wedding sermon is a good model.