Led by the Priest holding the Gospel in his right hand, the couple circles three times around the table altar. As husband and wife, they are taking their first steps together as a married couple. The Cross, the symbol of our redemption, is on the altar. This expresses the fact that the way of Christian living is a perfect orbit around the center of life, Jesus Christ. The dance is one of gratitude to God for His blessings and of the joyfulness of being so blessed.

Also proclaimed is the Churchs joy at the new union, which represents the joy of Isaiah the Prophet when he envisioned the coming of the Messiah. A hymn to the Holy Martyrs is sung reminding the newly married couple of the sacrificial love they are to have for each other in marriage a love that seeks not its own, but is willing to sacrifice its all for the one loved.

Provided by Mr. and Mrs. Spyridon Meares.