Meaning, not filler
Choose readings because they say something true about marriage.
One or two well-chosen readings usually carry more weight than filling every possible slot in the ceremony.
Short answer
Choose one or two readings that reflect the kind of marriage you want to build, not merely words that sound romantic.
Biblical passages to consider
- 1 Corinthians 13:1–13, love that is patient and enduring.
- Colossians 3:12–17, compassion, forgiveness and love.
- Ecclesiastes 4:9–12, companionship and shared strength.
- Romans 12:9–18, sincere love and practical life together.
- John 15:9–17, abiding love and self-giving friendship.
Use the translation and amount of text permitted by the church or copyright holder.
Original short blessing
May your home become a place where truth can be spoken without fear, forgiveness can be given without keeping score, laughter has room to return after hard days, and love becomes something you practice as well as something you feel.
Choosing a reading
Ask: would we still want these words read if there were no photographs or audience? If yes, they probably belong in the ceremony.