The Sacred Fire Ceremony is symbolic of the separate lives of the couple and the union of One accomplished by this beautiful and exciting ceremony.
A fire circle is built with high sides made of stones. Seven types of wood are specially cut from specific types of trees by a priest or spiritual leader. The wood and fire circle are blessed with prayer and song ceremonies.
Three separate fires are prepared in the sacred fire circle. One large fire prepared in the center of the Circle represents the Creator and the holy union of two people. Two smaller fires are prepared, one in the north and one in the south that represents the bride and groom who have individual lives before the wedding ceremonies. Tobacco, sage, sweet grass and corn are sprinkled on the respective fires by the spiritual leader, bride and groom as prayers are given and songs are sung.
The bride and groom each offer a prayer (aloud or silently) as the two small fires are lit. After both fires burn for a few moments, the bride and groom gently push their two small fires into the large stack of wood in the center which catches fire. All sing praises to the Creator as the two lives are merged into one holy union.
Another variation of the Fire Ceremony is called the Rite of Seven Steps. In this wedding ceremony, both the bride and groom take seven steps sunwise (clockwise) around the sacred fire. For each step taken, a vow is said by each.
The groom makes one step forward and says a vow, and then the bride takes a step to join him and says her vow until one round around the fire is completed. Family and friends join hands in a circle around the fire.
A variation of the Rite of Seven Steps ceremony has the couple exchanging gifts after each step to signify each vow given. Example: kernels of corn represent fertility and growth, a feather stands for truth and loyalty, a stone stands for strength, solidarity and wisdom. The vows shown below are only an example of words that may be recited; however, you should consider writing your own vows.
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