OCR Text |
Show 0 :- . " A'i"-. ' 1 ,' v ' . . : " i 1 I - . t ' : ! j i i ' .1 MR. AND MRS. JEFFERY DAVID ORN Modern weddings reflect old marriage customs In medieval times, the bride and bridegroom kissed over a pile of small cakes. When an enterprising baker decided to mass all the cakes together and spread frosting over them, the modern tiered wedding cake was bom. Th$ practice of tossing the bouquet originated during the Colonial period in American history when the bridal party seized the newlyweds' stockings and tossed them over their shoulders at the bride and groom-the first ones to hit the target, ushers aiming for the groom and bridesmaids aiming for the bride, the next to be married. And, with the Victorian era was born the white wedding gown, a symbol of purity. Everlasting Rituals Marriage has survived through the ages and, along with it, tradition. Although the customs, rituals and beliefs associated with marriage and the wedding ceremony have been altered and updated, they are still a part of the modern-day wedding. Courtships, engagement rings, flowers, gifts, the act of "giving away the bride," the exchange of vows and wedding bands, and the honeymoon all define this "rite of passage." Beginning in Rome From the days of the Romans, traditions have been handed down, changing along the way as they are reinterpreted by people. The institution of the family was once thought of as a liaison formed for political, economic and emotional security. The partnership was often prearranged, with each member taking on clearly defined duties. Modem Meaning Today, couples enter into marriage based on love. The roles of husband and wife are not as cut and dry as they were in the past-partners grow individually as well as together. Although the original meaning of certain ritual have gone by the wayside, the rites remain. We no longer believe, as did the citizens during the Middle Ages that a vein runs from the ring finger to the heart. However, it is on this finger that the wedding band is still placed. The Romans also believed that the goddess Juno blessed those married in June. Today the month of June is still the most popular month in which to be wed. And, everyone gathers together, dressed in special clothes to wish good luck and happiness to the new couple. Through the Ages There is something special, sacred, about an action or belief that has survived since the days of Caesar, ' passed from generation to generation by young, old, rich and poor. Although recent years have shown a return to tradition, the future will inevitably bring further change in style and format, bridal showers include male guests, and the stiff formal amenities become more casual and enjoyable for all. Signs of Love The traditions, however, will remain symbols of love between two people who have made a commitment to each other in the eyes of family and friends. As their ancestors have done in the past, they will embark on a new life together, creating new memories and passing down traditions to future generations. The beauty and elegance of a wedding, wed-ding, whether carried out in a simple or elaborate manner, will be forever preserved in family histories. He is employed by the Yankton Sheriff's Department. |