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In the celebration today, an ol' man appeared,
Gazing from the walls of St. Mary's Church, revered.
Uninvited, he stood close, a silent overseer,
Observing the wedding with a presence sincere.
His name needs no introduction, we all know,
St. Arthmael, with a radiant glow.
In the 6th Century, he walked the land,
Son of a Breton King, a noble strand.
Renowned for healing, the sick he restored,
Establishing monasteries, serving the Lord.
Wise sermons he delivered, guiding the way,
But his greatest feat saved Brittany one day.
A fiery dragon threatened a village place,
Arthmael faced it bravely, in that dangerous chase.
The dragon met its end, drowning in a river,
And Arthmael earned sainthood, a holy caregiver.
Arthmael's life now seems relatively cruisy,
Our 21st century world isn't always easy.
We face challenges like Covid and strife,
Navigating daily hurdles in this journey of life.
Riding London transport, working each day,
Confronting illnesses that come our way.
Saving up for travels to New Zealand's coast,
Around the World there are troubles from pillar to post.
The signs of the times, across common sea shores,
Climate change, conflict and rumours of wars.
Environmental degradation that must be addressed,
Extreme views, fake news, causing distress.
But Antonia and Liam, your imprint and legacy,
May not be marked, by ground-breaking chivalry.
You are not (to our knowledge) the son or daughter of the King,
But you have power in the promise sealed by the wedding ring.
The people you heal, are affected by your generosity,
The wise sermons are your words, devoid of animosity.
The monastery you built, is a safe welcoming home,
The missionary quests, are adventures to roam.
For you are the dragon slayers at earth’s crossroad,
Who dispatch fears and concerns like a smooth railroad.
For we fight on the battlements of life, together you stand,
We are sure you can tackle anything, on any day, hand in hand.
Surrounded by kindred spirits, you are now forever flatmates,
To get rid of dragons or a bull coming through the gates.
Let this day, be a slingshot for your odyssey,
Your love, supported by our love, be a memory for all eternity.
