The first part of the service, the bride and groom are betrothed by the Church. The rings are blessed by the Priest who takes them in his hand and making the sign of the cross over their heads, says "The servant of God, 'Groom's name,' is betrothed to the maid of God, 'Bride's name,' in the name of the Father, of the Son and of the Holy Spirit."

The rings are put on the right hands and the Koumbaro exchanges the rings three times to symbolize the complimentary role of husband and wife. The exchange signifies that in married life the weaknesses of the one partner will be compensated for by the strength of the other, the imperfections of one by the perfections of the other. By themselves, the newly-betrothed are incomplete; together they are made perfect.

Thus the exchange of rings gives expression to the fact that the spouses in marriage will constantly be complementing each other. Each will be enriched by the union. A final prayer is recited by the priest asking God to bless this putting-on of rings with His heavenly benediction and let His angel go before them all the days of their lives.

Provided by Mr. and Mrs. Spyridon Meares.