In 'The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe' by C.S. Lewis, the part where Father Christmas arrives is a wonderful christmas reading. It's a magical moment in the story, where he gives the children gifts that will help them in their adventures. It brings a sense of hope and celebration in the midst of the otherwise dark and wintry Narnia.
One great option could be from 'The Little Prince' by Antoine de Saint - Exupéry. Its gentle and profound words can offer comfort. For example, 'It is only with the heart that one can see rightly; what is essential is invisible to the eye.' Another is from 'A Tale of Two Cities' by Charles Dickens. Sydney Carton's final speech about a far, far better rest has a certain solemnity suitable for a funeral.
From 'Little Women', the parts about family and the different kinds of love can be really meaningful in a wedding. For instance, the love between Meg and John Brooke can be a great example for a couple starting their new life together. In 'Great Expectations', Pip's journey of love and self - discovery also has passages that could be read at a wedding. The transformation of his feelings towards Estella can be seen as a metaphor for the growth of love in a relationship.
In 'Little Women' by Louisa May Alcott, there are warm and loving passages about family and love. It can bring a sense of family values and the importance of love in a relationship. The simple yet profound words can touch the hearts of the guests at a wedding. It shows that love is not just about passion but also about kindness, support and growing together.
A passage from 'Maurice' by E. M. Forster can also be a wonderful choice. This novel was ahead of its time in exploring gay relationships. The parts that show the characters' struggle and their ultimate acceptance of their love can be read at a wedding as a celebration of love against all odds. It gives a sense of the journey that many gay couples have been through.
Some wonderful wedding ceremony readings from fantasy novels might come from 'Good Omens'. The relationship between Crowley and Aziraphale, with their unique bond that transcends the normal, can offer some interesting and touching passages. In the 'Mistborn' series, there are moments that deal with loyalty, friendship and love that could be adapted for a wedding. Moreover, in the 'His Dark Materials' trilogy, the concept of daemons and the deep connections between characters can be a source of profound and beautiful passages for a wedding ceremony reading.
From 'Giovanni's Room' by James Baldwin, there are poignant passages. Baldwin's exploration of identity, love, and the complex relationship between the characters in this novel can provide a very moving reading. The way he writes about the love between David and Giovanni, with all its joys and sorrows, can be a meaningful addition to a gay wedding ceremony.
The Christmas story can also be read as a call for unity. When Jesus was born, people from different backgrounds - shepherds and wise men - came together to witness this great event. This can be seen as a symbol that during Christmas, and in general, people should put aside their differences and come together in celebration and harmony.
A great option for a wedding reading from a novel is from 'Outlander' by Diana Gabaldon. The relationship between Claire and Jamie is filled with love, loyalty, and adventure, and an appropriate passage could add a touch of magic to the wedding. 'Sense and Sensibility' by Jane Austen also has some wonderful passages about love and relationships that would work well. And don't forget about 'Anne of Green Gables'. The descriptions of love and friendship in it can be very heart - warming for a wedding reading.
Online book communities can be a great resource. For example, Goodreads has groups dedicated to different types of literature, including those focused on christmas - themed books. Members often share their favorite passages and novels that have good christmas content. You can also search for blogs that review and recommend christmas - related novels.
One great option could be passages from 'The Notebook' by Nicholas Sparks. The love story in it is so profound and the words can be very touching for a wedding. For example, the parts where Noah writes to Allie are full of deep love and commitment.