Monday, May 7, 2012

Weird Moment For A Pastor

This coming weekend I face a moment that is both a privilege, and well... weird. The big occasion? I will officiate a wedding. Normally, that's not a big deal. In my time in ministry thus far I have officiated at over 50 weddings. I have been involved with some very routine weddings and some pretty unique ones, but nothing like this.Why? This Saturday I officiate the wedding for... my mom. I know, weird.

A little back story. My father passed away about 10 years ago. He is still greatly missed by all of us, yes, including my mom. we love him dearly. Since his death, things have been very difficult for my mom with a great deal of grieving and difficult circumstances. Even with her 3 kids and multiple grandchildren, life was lonely for her.

Enter Marty.

I won't even go in to how it all began. There was lunch, fireworks (apparently both kinds), and here we are. The most important thing I can say about Marty is that he makes my mom happy. He is beyond good to her. That makes me happy.

Back to the wedding. It didn't begin to feel odd until we were in our planning meeting. An example: as pastors we walk the bride and groom through the vows; they repeat after us. But, for me the bride is "mom" and not Roberta. Also, I am marrying my mom to a man who is not my father. I just can't say it any other way... weird. But also kind of cool. How many people can say that they officiated a wedding for a parent?

Should be an interesting experience.

Chris

2 comments:

cyrilla said...

All I can say is WOW and U must feel honored to be able to do this for her! Wish the newlyweds a Blessed and wonderful LONG life together.
The Bender bunch

Anonymous said...

So happy for you and your family. I remember when I lost my mom. My dad was lonely even in a crowd. We kids tried to fill in but it just wasn't the same. I'm so happy that your mom will have someone to fill that void. I know your dad would be happy for her too. Enjoy the day.
Deb Bown