GayFatherhood

My partner, Randy, and I are getting hitched American style. It has taken us almost three years to finalize our respective divorces and get our finances straightened out. While the law of the land here in Florida does not give civil recognition to same-sex marriages, our church recognizes the spiritual blessing of the relationship -- thus they have been performing "Holy Unions" for many years.

In addition, our lawyer has provided us with extensive papers to help us protect each other in our time of need -- Wills, powers of attorney, Pre-Need Declarations, etc., etc., etc (and they say we don't need civil recognition of marriage). It took 10 documents between us just to protect each other in sickness or death. But I digress.

Our Holy Union is set for Saturday, November 12, 2005 at 2:15pm.

Anyone who will be in the Tampa Bay area that weekend are invited to join us in celebration of our lives together. Just send me an email at erwingoodwin@yahoo.com and I will make sure you have an invitation and map.

Hey guys that is fantastic news, David and I from Ireland send you guys every good wish and trust in your success for the future together.

We had a ceremony at sea in 2003 but hope this December to formally and legally tie the knot with a civil partnership occasion at the City Hall in Belfast. We will need to get wills etc sorted too soon, but it is a good thing that we can now plan for this eventuality.

Hope you have a great day and many people attend to witness this celebration of your lives together.

Cheerio for now....Vincent...x

Hey, I thought I responded to this already, but I must have been under anestesia still! lol

Hey, congrats! And you are marrying on my oldest son's 15th birthday (okay, now I feel old).

On one hand, it's sad that we have to have all those documents instead of one (court recognized marriage), but on the other I am thrilled that you are not letting the law stop you. I have been told about the legal document route, insurances, wills and all that. My friend Chris has insisted for years that gays don't need marriage to legally protect each other, and I've argued that he's missing the point (but I digress...)

I am so glad that people like you are not letting the system get in your way, but are instead going against and even around the system along the way.

Perhaps you could share with the group here at large just what documents your lawyer recomended and any hints on how to set these things up. I personally would find it very helpful.

Vince, I'm so glad I was there on that ship in 2003, wish I could be there for the celebrations at Christmas. I'm so happy for you both!

Erwin and Randy - Congratulations! Gosh, not long now, eh? I wish you all the best on your special day.

Thanks, UK Canuck.

Congratulations Erwin and Randy!!

That is great news! Glad that Anita Bryant ain't involved in FL anymore. My partner and I are figuring out what to do. We have rings, and can get married legally and in 2 different churchs: The Unitarian and a supportive United church. As soon as we iron out the details with letting my son know (about everything!) we will be ready to 'tie the knot'!

WELL WE DID IT!!!

As of yesterday afternoon (2:00pm Eastern US) we became "husbands together." The service was wonderful and the reception afterwards was very nice. Pictures to be posted soon.

Once again..CONGRATULATIONS! I cant wait to do the same! Vivre le mariage homosexuel!!