Handfasting and a sample ceremony

Pagan handfasting is a type of wedding ceremony that is based on ancient pagan traditions. It is a spiritual union between two people, and it is often used to celebrate the joining of two people in a committed relationship. The ceremony is usually performed outdoors, and it involves the exchange of vows, the tying of hands, and the exchange of rings or other symbols of commitment.

The ceremony begins with the couple standing in a circle, surrounded by their family and friends. The officiant will then call upon the four elements (earth, air, fire, and water) to witness the union. The couple will then exchange their vows, and the officiant will tie their hands together with a cord or ribbon.

This is known as the handfasting, and it is a symbolic gesture of the couple’s commitment to each other. Next, the officiant will ask the couple to exchange rings or other symbols of commitment. This is a way of showing that the couple is now bound together in a spiritual union.

After this, the officiant will offer a blessing and a wish for the couple’s future. Finally, the officiant will declare the couple to be handfasted and will ask the family and friends to offer their blessings.

The ceremony is then concluded with the couple sharing a kiss.

Officiant: We are gathered here today to witness the union of [Name] and [Name] in a handfasting ceremony.

Officiant: Let us call upon the four elements to witness this union. [The officiant calls upon the four elements]

Officiant: [Name] and [Name], do you come here of your own free will to be joined in a spiritual union?

Couple: We do.

Officiant: [Name] and [Name], please join hands. [The couple joins hands]

Officiant: I now bind your hands together with this cord, a symbol of your commitment to each other. [The officiant ties the cord around the couple’s hands]

Officiant: [Name] and [Name], please exchange rings or other symbols of commitment. [The couple exchanges rings or other symbols of commitment]

Officiant: May your love for each other be as strong and unbreakable as this cord.

Officiant: I now declare you to be handfasted. [The officiant unties the cord]

Officiant: May your love for each other grow and deepen with each passing day.

Officiant: I now ask your family and friends to offer their blessings. [The family and friends offer their blessings]

Officiant: You may now share a kiss. [The couple shares a kiss]

Officiant: Congratulations, you are now handfasted.