The Broom Mistress will have guests gather
in a circle with the couple in the middle.

Broom MistressRecites:

"When our people were slaves, the rites of marriage were forbidden to us. For them, jumping the broom became the ritual by which they pursued the passage of marriage. The broom itself held spiritual significance for many African people - representing the beginning of homemaking for a couple. Jumping the broom is also a symbol of sweeping away the old and welcoming the new, or a symbol of a new beginning. Today that broom stands as a symbol of the ingenuity and the devotion by which our ancestors re-created a solemn rite under adverse conditions."

The broom mistress will bring the broom to the center of the circle in front of the couple - she will then join the circle.

The officiant will Recite this Prayer:

"Dear God, unite these young lovers. May their path lead them always to one another. They vow to heed our culture's past and give to the future - may their love long last. Rejoice, reclaim, tell everyone your name. Tell your children and their children of the history you claim. We are gathered here in this circle as a symbol of the uniting of the two families and our commitment to support you throughout your marriage. Unite in marriage by jumping the broom. Amen."

As the bride and groom hold hands, the Officiant instructs the guests to count to 3 as the bride and groom jump the broom.

Broom Jumping Ceremony
The Family Ceremony
Interfaith Ceremony
Rose and The Vase Ceremony
The Sand Ceremony
Unity Candle Ceremony
Wine Ceremony/Breaking Glass Ceremony
Back to Ceremonies of the Heart

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