Moment of Silence

A Moment of Silence in your Wedding Ceremony.

A moment of silence in your wedding is a highly personal choice.  Some couples always want to remember those who have passed away during their wedding.  For some families it shows respect for their loved ones and it would be disrespectful not.  Other couples really don't care.  It's a day of joy and celebration for them; what's done is done, no reason to bring up the dead.  If I'm your wedding officiant, it's your decision.  I don't care either way.

When is a Moment of Silence a Good Idea?

If you have a grandparent who has recently passed away and their widow is present, it can be very meaningful. 

They probably talked and dreamed about being at your wedding together.  Acknowledging they are there in spirit is appropriate and very sweet.  

If you were in the military and spoke of being at each other's weddings someday, ​and some of you didn't make it home, it's appropriate to remember those people.  

If everyone present is emotionally over a recent death. 

​It's a joyful and happy occasion to remember everyone as part of your family.
​

When is a Moment of Silence Not a Good Idea During Your Wedding Ceremony?

If someone has recently passed away, it may hurt some people too much. 

Sometimes it's just too soon.  I had a bride who had literally planned most of her wedding with her grandmother, and she passed away before the wedding.  She was wearing her grandmother's wedding ring and carrying her memories in her bouquet.  She had a hard time keeping the tears back in general.  

In another situation, there was another family member that would completely fall apart when the deceased family member was mentioned.  We just chose to keep it out.  ​

Moment of Silence Option  1

At this time, we would like to take a moment to remember those who are not here with us today.  Those who could not be here or those who have gone on to greater things (or those who are deeply missed).  We know that they are here with us in spirit.  (We can list names here if you like) 
Can add:  We know their force is with us, always.

Moment of Silence Option 2

​At this time, we'd like to ask for a moment of silence to remember those who are no longer here with us. Even though they're not physically present, they are a key part of the foundation that makes ​Name and Name the people they are today. We cherish our memories of them and all others who live on in our hearts.

Moment of Silence Option 3

Name and Name are pleased that so many family and friends have come to witness their exchange of wedding vows. Each one of you has been important in their lives, and they look forward to your love and support in the future as they begin life as a married couple. They also wish to acknowledge family members and friends who are no longer with us physically, but whose gifts of love and friendship over the years will always be cherished and remembered. We are certain they are here today in spirit. In their memory, let us be silent together. 

Moment of Silence Option 4

This day will be filled with love and joy and laughter and will pass more quickly than can be imagined.  The couple has requested a brief pause to reflect and absorb this moment in their lives; to look, listen, and feel; to fix these sensations in their memories for years to come. Let’s also take this moment to remember those who are not here with us today.  Those who were unable to be here and those who have gone on to greater things.  We know they are here with us in spirit.

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