Different wording for "The Charge?"

I don't understand what you're actually asking, but I'll be glad you help you find the right words... I think of the "charge" as simply asking if you want to get married; this is what I use;

Today, Deborah and Sam, you will be joined together in marriage, in my presence, and in the presence these witnesses. The ancient rite of marriage, as most of us understand it, is the voluntary, deliberate and full commitment of two individuals to one another to become partners for a lifetime. It is made in the deepest sense possible, to the exclusion of all others, and it is entered into with the desire, the hope, and the firm intention that it will last forever.

Deborah and Sam have you come here freely and without reservation to give yourselves to each other in marriage?

The couple; YES!

Celia; That is GREAT!!!! (and everyone laughs, lol!)

Celia, you're so cute... hahah

I'm not sure which part you mean by "charge." When does it say that? And in what context?

The Charge is not a Christian term. It's just asking you to confirm your intent.

@ Analy - Thanks for that! I was trying to figure out what "The Charge" meant and though some quick googling, Christian popped up. I figured since i didnt really understand what it meant, it must be a Christian THAANNNG!

@ Celia - That helps a lot too- I thought it sounded awkward, but i suppose the charge is a common thing in weddings after all! I will keep its original name for our ceremony flyers ^__^

I say it at the beginning; I start the wedding with a reading (not a welcome) then I do a presentation from the parents, if that is going to happen (not everyone chooses to do that) then the charge and THEN the welcome.

I know it sounds a little out of order, but I want to make sure there is something to welcome everyone TO. And I like to mix it up a little so everyone knows they are in for an exciting ride (not, "Dearly beloved.....please be prepared to be bored for a half an hour before you get a glass of wine......).

Works for me; your mileage may vary.

LOL Celia!!!

Celia I adore reading your posts. I wish I could kidnap you to san juan for my wedding!

Declaration of Intent

@ Celia - I agree with everyone. Youre full with just the right amount of cheese for me!

Ha ha.....Ashlee you CAN kidnap me! ;-) It's SNOWING in NJ in Jan!

Thank you all for your kind words.

As an officiant who does non-Christian weddings, I prefer to meet with the couple and ask them what they want in terms of vows, whether they wish to modify anything, have me write original vows, or write their own. It's a cooperative thing. Best of luck to you!