Step children Ceremony

[dolphincc]

My sister is getting married next year and she has three boys. Does anyone know of any special ways to include step children into the wedding ceremony?

[JerAndKathy]

When my parents got married (the second time)...

Mom & Step-Dad had ID Bracelets made for the four of us (two of his, two of mom's) with the date engraved on the back.

Dad & Step-Mom, with 7 kids, went a li'l cheaper. :lol: We each got one of those guardian angel pins. :)

[Trinia]

What about a sand ceremony?
The Sand Unity Ceremony has become a very popular option. With the addition of these coordinating Miniature Nesting Vases and contrasting colors of sand, now children can be invited to take part. The mixing of the various sand colors is a fitting way to symbolize the new Blended Family that will result from this union. Although there are no set guidelines for this ceremony, generally the sand is poured into the central vase in the following order:
1. Father
2. Mother
3. Children
4. Father & Mother together.
Readings and sentiments can be customized as desired.

Here is a link (http://mydivinewedding.com/sandceremony.html#family)

[dolphincc]

Thanks for the idea Trin, I think we will do the family sand ceremony. I found this ceremony on another website and it is perfect.

_________ and _________, today you are making a life-long commitment to share the rest of your lives with each other and honor your children as well. Your family relationship is symbolized through the pouring of these individual containers of sand; one, representing you, _________ and all that you were, all that you are, and all that you will ever be, one representing you, _________, and all that you were and all that you are, and all that you will ever be and another container for each child. There are children who will share in this marriage. The gathering of this new family will have a deep influence upon them. We realize that in order for the home to be a happy one, it is essential that there be love and understanding between the children and the adults being married.

As you each hold your sand the separate containers of sand represent your lives to this moment; individual and unique. As you now combine your sand together, your lives also join together as one family.

You may now blend the sand together symbolizing the uniting of the children and bride and groom into one.

Just as these grains of sand can never be separated and poured again into the individual containers, so will your marriage and your family be.

[Trinia]

:whoop: Glad I could help! I am doing the sand ceremony and though the family thing was sure neat!

[-->Kat<--]

we included my daughter in the sand ceremony and DH read paternal vows to her and presented her with a ring (but we put it on a necklace, cause him placing a ring on her finger woulda been kinda weird)... everybody loved and cried over the paternal vows.

[Trinia]

That is sooo sweet!

[-->Kat<--]

This is what we did -

9. CHILD’S VOW:
As part of the family nature of God’s creation we recognize Madison and the significant role she plays in this marriage being celebrated today. Erik would like to present her with paternal vows and a symbol of family unity.

(read by Erik)

I vow to be a patient, loving father to you, caring for you and providing for you as my own. I vow to be your strength and your emotional support, loving you with all my heart from this day forward. So help me God.
(Erik puts necklace on Madison)

[dolphincc]

That is so nice Kat, I am sure Madison felt so special to be included in the ceremony.

[-->Kat<--]

thank you... she really did feel included... and I'm glad... I didn't want her to feel left out with all the planning that led up to the wedding and then the wedding itself.

[km]

:computer:

http://mclaird.manilasites.com/stories/storyReader$20