You’ve already honored the brides and grooms who came before as part of your Invo­ca­tion. But now you want to honor the people, no longer with us, who had impor­tant roles in your devel­op­ment. As people marry later in life, fewer grand­par­ents and great aunts and uncles, are able to be present at wedding ceremonies.

But beloved grand­par­ents and other elders have often played pivotal roles in our lives. They should be remem­bered, either in a group or by name, as part of the Joining of Fami­lies. Honoring the ances­tors allows you to establish

1. that you believe family is important.
2. that you have learned impor­tant lessons from those gone on before.

Tip: Take a quick moment in the cere­mony to honor the memory and perhaps mention the names of those who have gone on before. Some of you will be comfort­able accepting their pres­ence among you as you make your vows to your beloved.