Amazing Grace

Amazing Grace, How sweet the sound
 
That saved a wretch like me
 
I once was lost, but now am found
 
Was blind but now I see
 
T’was Grace that taught my heart to fear
 
And Grace, my fears relieved
 
How precious did that grace appear
 
The hour I first believed
 
Through many dangers, toils and snares
 
We have already come.
 
T’was grace that brought us safe thus far
 
And grace will lead us home,
 
And grace will lead us home
 
Amazing grace, Howe Sweet the sound
 
That saved a wretch like me
 
I once was lost but now am found
 
T’was blind but now I see
 
Was blind, but now I see.

"Amazing Grace" is a renowned hymn and gospel song, penned by John Newton, a British pastor. John Newton (1725-1807) was born into a British merchant family. His mother, a devout Christian, nurtured young John with Bible stories. As he grew up, John followed in his father's footsteps, a commander of a merchant ship, and became a sailor.
The lyrics of "Amazing Grace" reflect the pious state of mind of John Newton, who experienced a miraculous awakening to God's grace while on a ship returning to England. This profound experience is vividly captured in the words of the hymn.

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Pray

There are 8 billion people in the world.
At this very moment,In Kumamoto, Japan, and across the world,Many believe in the hope of tomorrowAnd pledge to rebuild.
Yet, the flames of warStill do not cease in the world.
People were not born to fight,But to love and cherish each other.
Out of 8 billion, only twoHave met in the miracle of today.We are grateful to witness, gather, and shareIn the joy of this miraculous moment.
May everyone in the world be like these two today,And like us, who are able to witness their happiness.
Filled with love and peace,We pray and give thanks.We now commence the civil wedding ceremony.

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Declaration of Marriage Completion

A new couple has been born here today.
Two people, always mindful of marriage,Felt both honesty and anxietyUpon finding someone so important.
And now, in these turbulent times,
Will I be able to protect the one I love?Such anxiety is common to all.
But those who have experienced life's various trials know:
People cannot live alone.There is always a light of hope, even in times of suffering.
Only human bonds can save people.The preciousness of family and friendship built upon these bonds.
To protect their children, parents work tirelessly,Becoming a family, as your parents did for both of you.
From today, a strong bond becomes twice as strong.
Just now, you two have exchanged vows of marriageAnd received the approval of everyone here.
Though it is presumptuous of me, I hereby declareThat your marriage is now duly established.

These words of prayer began at the wedding of a couple affected by the 1995 Great Hanshin Earthquake and have been updated over time according to the era and circumstances. New phrases have been added this time as well.
A new couple has been born here today.