A BOATER'S WEDDING
I was privileged to attend the wedding of Joe Jones and Jackie Thomas on Monday 3rd June 2002 on the canal bank at Froncysyllte near Llangollen in North Wales. The following is my record of the occasion, with the words used being those used by the (boating) parson, Ian Cardinal. "As you join in marriage, may life always be a shared adventure, marked by a sense of personal freedom, as well as mutual responsibility. May you find in each other companionship as well as love; understanding as well as compassion; challenge as well as agreement." "May the home you establish be an island where the pressures of the world can be sorted out and brought into focus; where tensions can be released and understood; where personal needs do not tower over concern for others and where the warmth of humour and love puts crisis into perspective." "And above all, may you find an ever-richer joy in loving and learning together."
"We swear by peace and love to stand,
"Now you will feel no rain, for each of you will be shelter for the other. "Will you, the families and friends of Joe and Jackie support and uphold them in their marriage now and in the years to come?" "We will."
"May you be blessed with the strength of heaven - and then to Joe and Jackie:
"May the road rise to meet you. And then to all: "Go forth in the love of God; go forth in hope and joy, knowing that God is with you always. Be merciful in all your ways, kind in heart, and humble in mind. Accept life, and be most patient and tolerant with one another. Forgive as freely as God forgives you. And, above all else, be truly loving. Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts. We bless you and send you forth on your new journey with love and joy."
"Jumping" the (only just dry enough) mopstick Setting out on a new voyage.......... .....and coming back! The wedding party went too............... Then we all fed our faces! This is what it looked like from the opposite towpath. (photo Stephen Bashford) |
Updated on June 7th 2002 by Brian L Dominic