Wedding Belles

I don’t think I have mentioned this before, but I direct weddings. For the months and weeks beforehand, I work with the bride and her mother to coordinate the plans that they have made for the bride’s special day. Then, the weekend of her wedding, I am there to pull it all together, just as planned.

In addition to directing weddings at my church (Shades Mtn. Independent Church in Hoover, Alabama), I direct weddings in the Colonial Chapel at the historic American Village in Montevallo, Alabama; and I have directed outdoor weddings in various locales: the beach, on estates, in gardens, and poolside.

As part of my spiritual journey, I consider it a great honor to assist couples with their wedding: it is one of the most spiritual commitments they make. Marriage is, in fact, the only human being-to-human being “covenant” relationship that two people will ever form. Upon the foundation of that covenant, a home is made and a family begun.

Elaborate, and often expensive, preparations are made: a question is asked, a promise is made, a ring is given and received, and wedding plans commence. Brides start their search for the perfect dress and the perfect wedding location. Will they walk barefoot in white onto a pristine beach as the sun sets? Or will she have the traditional wedding she has always dreamed of in the church she grew up in? Will the couple ride away to their honeymoon in carriage, limo, or vintage automobile? What color will the bridemaids’ dresses be? What style tuxedo for the groom? For the groomsmen?

So many decisions to be made. So many hopes resting on this one day. So much stress and anxiety for a thirty minute ceremony that will change their lives forever!

I have directed weddings long enough to sadly see some of them come undone. I have also enjoyed watching couples grow into a family as little ones have come along. To watch the mystery of two becoming one and out of that bond flow great ministry, great partnership, great love and family.

Bells in the steeple no longer ring out for each and every wedding, but they should. The belles and beaus that walk that aisle and say their “I do’s” have begun a dance together that is like no other.

Release the doves. Blow the shafar. Throw the flower petals. Strike up the band. Ring all the bells. Hold nothing back. Celebrate the beauty and mystery of it all.