Blessing of Husband & Wife

Yesterday we were privileged to be able to share the celebration of silver jubilee with a couple from Church. As they were very much attached to the traditional rites of the Church, they took advantage of a traditional Latin Mass with a special blessing at the end. After communion we were treated to a rendition of Panis Angelicus by the family, which was sung beautifully and quite unexpectedly as I welcomed my divine guest under the appearance of humble bread.

After the Last Gospel, the Priest lay his maniple aside, and faced the happy couple as they knelt before the sanctuary in St. Philips Chapel. He then recited over them certain prayers. These began with Psalm 127 (Here follows the English translations):

Blessed are all they that fear the Lord: * that walk in his ways.
For thou shalt eat the labours of thy hands: * blessed art thou, and it shall be well with thee.
Thy wife as a fruitful vine, * on the sides of thy house.
Thy children as olive plants, * round thy table.
Behold, thus shall the man be blessed * that feareth the Lord.
May the Lord bless thee out of Sion: * and mayest thou see the good things of Jerusalem all the days of thy life.
And mayest thou see thy children's children: * peace upon Israel.
Glory be etc.

The following prayer was beautiful:

O Lord, behold these Thy faithful ones and stretch out towards them the right hand of Thy heavenly help. So may they seek Thee with all heart, and, having prayed rightly, be found worthy to have their prayers granted.
Almighty and everlasting God, these Thy servants have come with gladness to Thy holy temple to render Thee thanks. In Thee is all their trust. Graciously look down upon them and hear our prayer. May they receive the gifts of Thy grace. May they hold fast to charity in unity. And when this life's journey is ended, may they, and their children with them, be found worthy to attain the joys of everlasting bliss. Through Christ our Lord. Amen.

We then sang a Te Deum before a closing prayer and sprinkling with Holy Water. I hope, in 22 years time, to be following this same rite with a grateful heart.