233 - A Wedding Song

My daughter was married on Sunday to a wonderful young man from Naples, Italy. It is a mixed marriage. But being with his family all week, I see so many similarities in our behavior and outlook. They are all learning about our traditions, and we about theirs, though they are a thoroughly secular family with distain for the church. Some of both customs were included in the wedding celebration and during the week. We lit candles on Yom Kippur and Shabbat and talked about the holy days just passed. Wine and bread were blessed before lunch and there was a hora and a crensel crown for me, since this was my only child. During the week, the ladies made “confetti” - little bundles of Jordan almonds wrapped in a circle of tulle with the tag reading “Eve-Gerri & Mario’s Wedding - Eve-Gerri e Mario Sposi.” They are deeply in love. I feel very happy and at peace.

Two Hundred Thirty-Three

A Wedding Song
For Eve-Gerri and Mario

Eternal One, hold close this bride and groom,
Verify their love with Your blessing;
Enfold them with mutual care and devotion,
Gentleness and confidence, growing together.
Even as You have blessed their parents’ unions,
Remind them of strength of family,
Reborn through the evolution of their love.
In pledging their vows, they honor You,
Make their life together a sacred trust;
Answer their dreams with fulfillment,
Resting them always in Your keeping.
Inspire them to righteousness,
Orchestrate their days and nights with peace.