The Golden Cord Ceremony usually takes place after the exchange of rings in the wedding ceremony.

"Today I have a gift for you, three beautiful golden cords. They represent the three most important entities here today, you two and the loving God who made you and brought you together. 

"One of the great things about rope, is that when you tie it in a knot, the knot becomes the strongest part of the rope. You know I came here to tie the knot... (minister grins as he ties three cords into a knot, and then asks the bride and groom to hold each side of the cords). King Solomon wrote that "a cord of three strands is not easily broken."

"Pull this knot tight! That knot is a little like your marriage. If you pull too hard, wriggle it around, put it in a place of constant friction or pick at it, it might get loose or actually come undone. The knot I tied here today is like your marriage... beautiful, strong, tight and we all hope eternal.

"Keep that knot someplace visible in your home so you can be reminded of the strength of your love on your wedding day. Your hearts are now tied together in love, devotion and trust, with the strength of three."

NOTE: Copyright © 2009 Phillip Waring all rights reserved.

Photo: Fotos by Flint