Speech by Bob Zickell

Speech Type: Father of the bride/groom
Speech Creator: Bob Zickell
Speech Date: 13/08/2011 16:26:11

We would like to extend a warm welcome to family and friends who have moulded and influenced both Mike & Jenn throughout their lives. You've done a great job as we see two young people well prepared for their journey together. Our thanks to God who brought them together and gave us this beautiful day to celebrate their marriage. 

Michael thank you for your important role and being used by God to impart wisdom and share his plan for their marriage.

Jenn this is the day you have been planning for a long time. Mike, congratulations to you for your patience as I know you were ready some time ago. You may need to draw upon patience once again so look at this as good preparation. Jenn, you look absolutely beautiful tonight which reminds me of a bright fall day 33 years ago when your mother took a chance on me. Your mother often says apple trees make apples – you have inherited her beauty. Jenn you have our DNA for better and worse and that of your great grandparents and grand parents who made it all possible and I'm sure are looking down today with joy as the family tree sprouts a new branch.

Our prayer is that you will grow in marriage to be that couple  all  admire – a relationship that will be life giving to your friends and family. Mike, Diane and her small group have prayed for Jenn's future mate for over 20 years and you are the answer to that prayer. You really didn't have that much to do with it. We are proud and grateful that she has married a man like you. We have come to know and love you and look forward to sharing your lives together.  I especially approve of the way you look at my daughter the way you engulf her with your bear hugs and the secure feeling she has when you are near. You are already her protector.

A father is always concerned with her daughter being provided for. You have passed the test with a well established career in the financial field. Good choice! As I hear Jenny laugh I know you will bring joy to her heart.   It's traditional for the father of the bride to give a few pointers on marriage and how to love his daughter but I will defer to the bible that gives man the command to love his wife as Christ loved the church. This is the definition of unconditional love. A lesser quoted passage says that a man should live with his wife in an understanding way. He should learn all he can about her – this is a life goal for you Mike. Oscar Wilde once said woman are meant to be loved not understood but I know you are up for the challenge to do it God's way.

Jenn, from the day you arrived on the scene in the middle of Hurricane Gloria in 1985 you have brought excitement into our lives.You were anxious to come into this world, 5 weeks early and just 5.5 lbs. The doctor gave you a perfect 10 for an Apgar score and you have maintained that to this day.  Diane don't worry I'm not going into any more detail…Jenny you were a wonderful child who has grown into an accomplished young woman. We are so proud of you and so happy for you today.  The command in the bible for you is to respect your husband and cleave to him. You must separate from your parents and start life together with Mike. We send you off knowing you are well prepared.

Diane and Suzanne, you are the ones’ who have poured yourselves into Jenny's life. You have loved her through all of life's twists and turns. I know she is forever greatful to both of you for all your love and support.

My marriage advice is simple. A good marriage is an other centered relationship putting the others needs first. These couples understand that self centerdness is at the root of most problems. It's not al about you! 

Marriage begins today when we marry the one we love but doesn't blossom until we love the one we marry.  Jenn & Mike our toast to you as we all extend our love and support on this special day.