The Prayers

Eternal God, creator and preserver of all life, author of salvation, and giver of all grace: Look with favor upon this man and this woman whom you make one flesh in Holy Matrimony, and enable them to fulfill the vows they have made. Grant them wisdom and devotion in the ordering of their common life, that each may be to the other a partner in prayer, a strength in need, a counselor in perplexity, a comfort in sorrow, and a companion in joy. Grant that their wills may be so knit together in your will, and their spirits in your Spirit, that they may grow in love and devotion to you and with one another all the days of their lives. Give them courage, when they hurt each other, to recognize and acknowledge their faults, to seek your forgiveness, and to forgive and be reconciled to one another. May their union in Holy Matrimony be a sign of the love between Christ and his Church, and a joyful witness to the world. Bestow upon them, if it be your will, the gift and heritage of children, and the grace to bring them up to know you, to love you, and to serve you. Grant that they may so love, honor, and cherish each other in faithfulness and patience, in wisdom and true godliness, that their home may be a haven of blessing and peace. Give them such grace that together they may reach out in love and concern for others; and grant that all married persons who have witnessed these vows may find their lives strengthened and their loyalties confirmed.