"Union" vows

Bishop Michael Ingham instructs his flock not to call same-sex unions "marriages." Yet that is the word the homosexual press uses to describe them. And the 300-line same-sex rite approved by Bishop Ingham sure sounds like marriage vows. Here are a few excerpts:

Today we gather to witness and to bless the public commitment of N. and N. to such a covenant.

The presider then addresses the couple as follows.

N. and N., do you believe God has called you into a life-long covenant of love and fidelity? Couple: We do believe.

Will you live together in love? Couple: We will, with God's help.

Will you be faithful to one another? Couple: We will, with God's help.

... The presider invites the couple to stand in full view of the congregation and to face each other. Taking each other by the hand(s), each says to the other in turn:

N., I give myself to you. I love you, trust you, and delight in you. I will share your burdens and your joys. I will go with you wherever God calls us. This is my solemn promise.

... The presider then addresses the community as follows.

You, friends and members of the families of N. and N., are witnesses to this covenant. Will you support N. and N. in the promises they have made? We will.

... Will you stand by them, encourage, guide, and pray for them in times of trouble and distress? We will.

Do you give them your blessing? We do.