Prayer for the couple... wording advice!

[KaileK]

Help!

Luke and I decided to do a "Prayer of the couple" at our wedding ceremony. Its near the end of the ceremony and its an optional prayer that we say aloud, taking turns speaking. They have a guideline prayer in this vow book I am reading, and I like it but I need to change a few things and I need advice on the wording. I am usually really good about writing fluently but this is just stumping me!

Here goes....

(Bride and groom together):
All powerful, ever living God, we now kneel before you very happy, but somewhat nervous. that part sounds odd to me. We feel you brought us together in the beginning, helped our love grow and at this moment are with us in a special way. We ask that you stay by our side in the days and years ahead. Protect us from anything which might harm this marriage, give us courage when burdens come our way, teach us to forgive one another when we fail.

(Groom):
I ask from you the assistance I need to be a good husband and father. Never let me take my wife for granted or forget she needs to be loved. I promise to love and care for our children and to give them the best possible example.

(Bride):
I ask from you the assistance I need to be a good wife and mother. May I never fail to give my husband encouragement and adoration. I promise to devote myself to our children, even to the point of stepping aside when they must walk alone - I dont like that last line I need help finding something else to say. I dont like that last part, I need help on something else to say

(Together):
We ask, finally, that in our old age we may love one another as deeply and cherish each other as much as we do at this very moment. May you grant these wishes which we offer through your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord.

I like the basic outline of this prayer, but want to make it more personal. Thanks!

[Julz518]

I agree that the "happy but nervous" part sounds funny...

How about something like "we kneel before you now to give you thanks and ask you blessing for this union/marriage." it's a little more general of a statement and makes a good intro b/c it sums up the rest of the prayer.

As for the step aside line - I really like it, or the sentiment of it anyway. It's like the "parents must give their children roots & wings" sentiment that my mom always quoted to me. Do you want to cut it altogether, or replace it with something else? And if you already have a child (sorry, I can't remember if you do), I think the line is even more appropriate.

[KaileK]

Originally Posted by Julz518

I agree that the "happy but nervous" part sounds funny...

How about something like "we kneel before you now to give you thanks and ask you blessing for this union/marriage." it's a little more general of a statement and makes a good intro b/c it sums up the rest of the prayer.

As for the step aside line - I really like it, or the sentiment of it anyway. It's like the "parents must give their children roots & wings" sentiment that my mom always quoted to me. Do you want to cut it altogether, or replace it with something else? And if you already have a child (sorry, I can't remember if you do), I think the line is even more appropriate.

Yep, we have a 2yo and FH always teases me about being overprotective and so thats why I dont really want to say that last line because I know he will tease me about it... lol. I dont want to cut it altogether because then my part sounds short and abrupt, I'd like to replace it with something else?

Thanks for your help!