The True Secret

After they had been pronounced man & wife, Princess Elizabeth and Prince Philip heard the wise and holy counsel of the venerable Archbishop of York. His words reached beyond Westminster Abbey to the whole world. Said he:

". . . Notwithstanding the splendor and national significance of this occasion, the service ... is in all essentials exactly the same as it would be for any cottager who might be married this afternoon in some small country church. ...

"A vow was taken by each of you . . . when before God and man you made a solemn and deliberate promise that come what may, for better or for worse, in sickness and in health, you will always be true and faithful to one another. . . .

"You have given yourselves to each other in unselfish love. Love must always be unselfish, and unselfishness is the true secret of a happy married life. ... It means thoughtfulness and patience, ready sympathy and forbearance, talking over and sharing together the special interests and cares which each of you will have.

"And thus you will learn to bear one another's burdens as you walk on the road of life, making the journey together with happiness and hope. . . .

"But this service is far more than the taking of solemn vows. It is one of blessing. For it is only through God's help that you can keep the promise you have made. God's blessing has been given you that you may so live together in this life that in the world to come you may have everlasting life. The ever-living Christ is here to bless you. And He will always be near to help and guide you. His perfect love will deepen your love. The nearer you keep to Him the nearer you will be to one another...."

This file is automatically generated by a robot program, so reader's discretion is required.