What a Priest Said About Disney Magic

I went to a wedding a few weeks ago for a dear friend of mine. She and her family have been huge fans of Disney for decades. And when I say huge, back in the 1980s, their whole family had matching Mickey Mouse sweatshirts, a Mickey Mouse telephone (before cell phones!) and a collection of ceramic princesses in their china cabinet. They were the only people I knew who loved Disney as much as me!

The wedding was beautiful. It was a white church with a tall steeple in Massachusetts. It was the church she grew up in and the ceremony was led by a priest who's known their family for years. He did the normal do-you-take-this-man-do-you-take-this-woman vow stuff, but then I think he surprised the congregation with what he said next. Knowing their fondness for Disney, he encouraged the bride and groom to think of their marriage as a trip to the Magic Kingdom.

I'm paraphrasing, but here's the gist of what he said:

"Today we think of Main Street USA and the place where you both come from. Your traditions. Your respective families. Your growing up years. Take that with you as you begin your new journey together.

Next up is Tomorrowland. Tomorrow is the first full day of your new life as husband and wife. The future is uncertain but know that together you can weather any storm.

Fantasyland. This land is a reminder to have fun! Enjoy your lives. Cherish every moment and laugh often.

Frontierland. Marriage is full of new frontiers. You'll create a new home together. Perhaps have children. Blaze a trail that you'll be proud of.

And finally, there's Adventureland. Life is really one great big adventure - don't miss out! Laugh often. Love one another with all your heart. And enjoy the adventure - all of your adventures - together."

(Diehard Disney fans: I know what you're thinking. He totally skipped over Liberty Square! I'm pleased to report that I restrained myself and chose not to interrupt his beautiful sermon.)

He then gave the smiling bride and groom two gifts. The first was a Waterford crystal cross to remind them of their sacred commitment. And the other was a ceramic Mickey and Minnie Mouse to remind them of where they came from and where they're going on this magical adventure. 

The magic of Disney!