People around the world get married in different ways. God looks at the union of a man and woman in the same way, but different cultures celebrate the public covenant uniquely. I love getting to watch and learn. While visiting Romania this month, I had the privilege of attending the wedding of the youngest daughter of our national partners. It was a chance to learn about culture, to see a wedding with fresh eyes, and to deepen our bond with our friends.

Like every place, every wedding in Romania is unique. I was told the bride might be “stolen,” but I didn’t get to see that. I was hoping for some national dancing, but I didn’t get to see that. And even though I couldn’t understand the language, I DID get to experience so many wonderful things in the wedding of Daniel & Sorina. I can’t share them all, but I’ll share my top 10.

My Top 10 moments in a Romanian wedding

1. The mother of the bride mopped the kitchen floor the morning of the wedding! Around the world, moms are “doers” who can get the job done!
2. The couple knelt down, facing each other, for the prayer of blessing, performed by the bride’s father. He put his hands on their heads as he prayed over them. After a long illness, it was even more of a gift to have him present to bless the couple.
3. At the reception, the bride took off her veil and placed it on the head of one of the flower girls … who proceeded to spin around (princess style) and take off running with joy!
4. Every guest had their picture taken with the newly married couple. It was a celebration for many loved ones in their lives.
5. A flower girl/niece played the wedding march for the happy couple. Imagine “chop sticks” with a few fingers, but it was full of pride & joy! It was perfect.
6. Immediately after the prayer of blessing, everyone erupted into singing the song “Showers of Blessings” (yes, in Romanian). I recognized the melody and the heart.
7. The couple took time to come to every table and talk to their guests. They were not hurried or distracted, but genuinely glad to welcome family & friends.
8. As we left for the evening (Jet lag & our ride took us home after just 6 1/2 hours, but the party was still going on!) the bride gave guests a beautiful box of homemade cakes as a thank you for coming.
9. A Romanian wedding is a great way to sample traditional foods! Delicious!
10. On the day after the wedding, we spent time at Deborah House for abused girls. I was surprised when the newlywed couple came in with their parents!

Can’t see the PHOTOS? Click HERE.

The wedding was a celebration of the forging of a new home.  Without being hurried or prissy, this event included joy for so many who have been part of each other’s lives. The bride was beautiful, but not untouchable. The ceremony was sacred, but not stuffy. It was not only about two people, it was about two families, their churches, their community, and the witnesses.

This Romanian wedding was a beautiful reminder that many friends and family have a part in a couple’s life as they come together, promise their lives, and then make that vow stick.

• There shall be showers of blessing. This is the promise of love;
• There shall be seasons refreshing, sent from the Savior above.
• Showers of blessing, showers of blessing we need;
• Mercy-drops round us are falling, but for the showers we plead.

• There shall be showers of blessing, if we but trust and obey;
• There shall be seasons refreshing, if we let God have His way.
• Showers of blessing, showers of blessing we need;
• Mercy-drops round us are falling, but for the showers we plead.