Yesterday, I performed a legal marriage ceremony in New York City for two 87 year old friends of mine who have been together as a couple for 56 years.
Six years ago, I led a ceremony for them celebrating their 50th anniversary. I promised them that I'd do all I could to help create the day that I would be able to do their legal wedding.
Yesterday was that day.
Kenneth, Peter, two witnesses, and I signed the marriage license in the middle of the ceremony. All of us present, including me, had tears in our eyes when I said, "By the power vested in me by the state of New York, I now pronounce you husband and husband, legally wed."
I blessed them in part with these words, "Peter and Kenneth, we all know that your holy union of two lives, two souls, two hearts is far greater than a legal union sanctioned by the state. But we are grateful that this day for equality has finally come. We are grateful for the blessings that brought us to this day, and ask for continued blessings on your home, your health, your companionship, your friendship. May we all hold these moments, this moment, in the blessed spirit of all that is holy."
May I invite you dear readers, along with those who were present with us yesterday, to bless them with your "Amen."
8 comments:
Amen. Blessed be.
Thank God for people like Peter and Kenneth who believe in the power of commitment in love. 56 years is a sacred accomplishment, one that keeps our family values and society as a whole stable and worthwhile. I rejoice in their marriage now sanctioned by law!
Amen!!!
Amen, indeed. Thank you, Debra, for all you do! And thank you for sharing this joyful moment, long over-due.
Amen and amen! Congratulations, thanks be to God!
Debra, Amen. Sorry, I had originally thought when you said you would be performing the wedding, it was happening on the day the law went into effect and they had won the lottery...my high hopes probably had me on that tangent, LOL.
Debra, as Joan said above, thank you for all you do and sharing the picture. I'm glad to have friends like you. Continued blessings to you.
Imam Daayiee
All power of love to these two fine men. May their love and commitment be a beacon for all. Mary E. Hunt
Beautiful! Thank you for sharing this inspiring story, Debra.
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