Ceremony Readings

We have two readers for our ceremony. Our pastor helped us find some unique passages that we both really love. I'm really looking forward to hearing Pastor Frank's reflection on these passages during the ceremony.

Colossians 3:12-17

¹² Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. ¹³ Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. ¹⁴ And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity.

¹⁵ Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful. ¹⁶ Let the message of Christ dwell among you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom through psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit, singing to God with gratitude in your hearts. ¹⁷ And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.

Philippians 2:1-5

¹ Therefore if you have any encouragement from being united with Christ, if any comfort from his love, if any common sharing in the Spirit, if any tenderness and compassion, ² then make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and of one mind. ³ Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, ⁴not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others. ⁵ In your relationships with one another, have the same mindset as Christ Jesus.

Our readers are two of our closest family friends, Alan Byard and Diane Johnson. Terry has known Alan as long as he can remember; Alan was one of Terry's mom's students when she taught high school history. Alan then became like a big brother to Terry and Kevin, babysitting them, playing video games, even coaching them in swimming. Despite his allegiance to U$C, we've stayed close to Alan and always enjoy a good tailgate or sporting event.

I have known Diane since I was five years old and playing Little League with her younger son, Matt. Our families have grown incredibly close, and Diane is my "second mom." She is my mom's best friend and has always been so supportive of Terry's and my relationship. I feel so honored that she will be speaking in our ceremony - it wouldn't be complete without the "Awesomes" making an appearance!