Declaration of Intent and Lighting of Candles
Having processed into the church, the couple must individually proclaim, before the assembly, that they have come freely, without constraints or prior commitment, to be joined by God as husband and wife. The bride and groom are then handed candles which are held throughout the service. The candles represent the couple's faith and willingness to follow the Light of Truth, Jesus Christ, and that they will have their way through life lighted by the teachings of the Church.
Read more about this topic: Marriage In The Eastern Orthodox Church
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“[The Declaration of Independence] meant to set up a standard maxim for free society, which should be familiar to all, and revered by all; constantly looked to, constantly labored for, and even though never perfectly attained, constantly approximated, and thereby constantly spreading and deepening its influence, and augmenting the happiness and value of life to all people of all colors everywhere.”
—Abraham Lincoln (1809–1865)
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—French National Assembly. Declaration of the Rights of Man (Sept. 1791)
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—Bible: New Testament, Matthew 5:15,16.
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O my dear, O my dear.”
—William Butler Yeats (1865–1939)