[homer]

My son is getting married this summer. I am a pastor and am performing the ceremony. They want a parental blessing, which I like the idea of. But as the parent and the pastor, how do we do the parental blessing? I can't ask myself questions, and I will be up front, and the other parents will not be. So any ideas how to have this parental blessing in the ceremony, and not have it look awkward?

[RevSusanna]

Hello Pastor,

Sometimes after the declaration of intent and just before the vows I bind the bride and groom's joined hands with my prayer stole. I then hold their hands in a cradling gesture. Then I ask the parents to come forward to bless the union. In this case, you may say, "Our children would like our blessings. Do we bless this union?" They answer, "We do." You may then add, "I do as well." (Then remove your right hand.) Now say "Then kindly place your right hands upon their joined hands and join me in a silent blessng." Be sure to continue upholding the bride and groom's hands with your left hand. Now let the other parents place their right hands. Then cover all their hands with your right hand. One father may stand by your side and the two mothers before you. A moment of silent blessing follows. You then thank them and they go back to their seats. You may then unwrap the prayer stole.

It may sound complicated, but it is actually very simple and beautiful. You can practice at rehearsal.


Blessings!