Return to the Jewish Wedding Guide for Interfaith Couples.

 Benediction

You have now affirmed before God, your families, and your friends your bond of love and commitment. You have come from different backgrounds. You have walked different paths. You are different individuals. Your love has transcended these differences. In the years before you, may the richness of the traditions that have nurtured you enhance and brighten your lives and others’ as you help to create and shape the future.

May the spirit of love be ever a part of your lives, so that the union we here celebrate this day be worthy of continued celebration tomorrow and tomorrow and tomorrow.

Yivarechecha Adonai v’yismerecha.
May the Lord bless you and keep you.
Ya-er Adonai panav aleilcha vichuneka.
May God’s countenance be lifted upon you and may God be gracious to you.
Yisa Adonai panav aleichca v’yaseim l’cha shalom.
May God’s countenance be upon you, and may God give you peace.

 Pronouncement of Marriage

You have both joined voluntarily in this ceremony of marriage, and have been formally united as husband and wife in the presence of your family and friends. As you have declared openly your clear intentions to be considered before all the world as a married couple, and have exchanged rings and vows attesting thereto, it is my pleasure and honor to pronounce you husband and wife.

Breaking of the Glass

See Breaking the Glass.

Recessional

The recessional is usually created around one piece of music for the couple, followed by the wedding party, sets of parents, grandparents and the wedding guests. Since the couple will often go into yichud together away from guests, immediately following the wedding, the guests usually go directly to the celebration and there is no formation of a receiving line. This is often left to the discretion of the couple, although some clergy have feelings about these customs, so ask them.

Return to the Jewish Wedding Guide for Interfaith Couples or view as a PDF.