When we love, we create an example of love. When others witness our love, others are inspired by love. When love grows, that which is not love diminishes. When we find our capacity to love being challenged; the spirit of life asks us, rather than seeking security in running away from love, to make the difficult choice to turn around and walk into love, to open our hearts and our hands, to offer compassion and listen, and to allow ourselves to be healed by the beauty of another person.

- Written by Marina Ormes for Elizabeth and Mark, married July, 2001

Congratulations on your upcoming marriage!

Marriage is a big step, and I am sure you have already put much thought and discussion into the decision. I believe that choosing to be connected to another human being in a committed way allows the love between you two to grow, and supports your continued growth as individuals with a loving companion at your side.

The process of creating your wedding ceremony is an opportunity to clarify who you are, both together and apart. It allows you to set the tone for your marriage, and infuse it with the qualities you want. It is also an opportunity to identify places of conflict, and to open yourselves to the growth that lies ahead. As your minister, I hope that my role can be to facilitate a smooth transition to married life, and to work with you to create and perform a ceremony that uniquely expresses who you are and what getting married means to you.

-Marina Ormes