What is a renewal of vows?
Simply put, a renewal of vows is a great way to celebrate your marriage... Again (now that you know what marriage is all about).
While a bride and groom beautifully radiate the promise and hope of love and their new levels of commitment, it is the seasoned married couple that exemplifies how love matures and deepens over time. This mutual growth, accented with highs and lows, is the true beauty of marriage. Coming before family and friends to reaffirm that deepened relationship and strengthened commitment is a unique way to share your union with those who have supported your journey.
While a bride and groom beautifully radiate the promise and hope of love and their new levels of commitment, it is the seasoned married couple that exemplifies how love matures and deepens over time. This mutual growth, accented with highs and lows, is the true beauty of marriage. Coming before family and friends to reaffirm that deepened relationship and strengthened commitment is a unique way to share your union with those who have supported your journey.
Is it right for us?
There are many reasons why a couple may be interested in renewing their vows. Common reasons include...
A renewal of vows ceremony is a public statement of your continuing love and affection for each other, and has no legal status.
It is appropriate for any legally married couple, regardless of the length of marriage. Morningside United is an inclusive Christian community, and welcomes all regardless of faith, culture, background or sexual orientation.
Do I have to be a member of Morningside United Church?
No. You do not have to be a member of Morningside United Church. However, we are a warm and welcoming community and would love to have you join us.
My partner and I are not religious. Can we still renew our vows at MUC?
Yes! We welcome all. Please note that we are a Christian faith community, and this will inspire elements of your church-based vow renewal ceremony. We encourage you to share any questions or concerns with the minister, and will work with you to create a beautiful and meaningful service.
- To celebrate a special milestone or wedding anniversary
- A couple that has survived a difficult period and wish to mark a renewed commitment to each other.
- If you and your partner have had children since your original ceremony, and you wish to include them in a second ceremony.
- For those who have married abroad and wish to have a ceremony for local friends and family.
- For those who originally married in a civil ceremony, but wish to have a faith-based ceremony.
- For couples that couldn´t have the original service that they wished, and want a do-over.
- For any married couple who wish to reaffirm the love that has matured and deepened over the years.
A renewal of vows ceremony is a public statement of your continuing love and affection for each other, and has no legal status.
It is appropriate for any legally married couple, regardless of the length of marriage. Morningside United is an inclusive Christian community, and welcomes all regardless of faith, culture, background or sexual orientation.
Do I have to be a member of Morningside United Church?
No. You do not have to be a member of Morningside United Church. However, we are a warm and welcoming community and would love to have you join us.
My partner and I are not religious. Can we still renew our vows at MUC?
Yes! We welcome all. Please note that we are a Christian faith community, and this will inspire elements of your church-based vow renewal ceremony. We encourage you to share any questions or concerns with the minister, and will work with you to create a beautiful and meaningful service.
What to expect...
The minister will help to provide the framework for you to design your own ceremony. You will have the opportunity to discuss the content of your ceremony so you can craft something that is unique to you and your partner, and meaningful for your family and friends. No two ceremonies are exactly the same, as you are creating a unique and memorable event that you both will treasure. Special people in your lives can take part in the ceremony – your children, guests from your wedding, or special friends and relatives. You can have music of your choice played on CD, or by live musicians if you wish, and you can have someone recite a poem or reading to enhance the ceremony. We can provide you with a choice of poems and readings. A special commemorative certificate is available and can be presented at the end of the ceremony.
Your ceremony will normally contain some, or all, of the following:
MUC is a very special place and we will be happy to accommodate you and to celebrate your special occasion.
Your ceremony will normally contain some, or all, of the following:
- Special music
- Introduction and welcome
- Acknowledgement of children of the marriage
- Readings/poetry
- Renewal of vows
- Giving and receiving, or re-dedication, of rings.
- Message from minister & you may invite guests from your wedding to say something.
- Signing of Commemorative Certificate
- Closing words
MUC is a very special place and we will be happy to accommodate you and to celebrate your special occasion.
