Renewal of Vows

St. James Cathedral

Orlando, Fl
February 16, 2013

I am glad that I attended and participated in the Renewal of Vows at the St. James Cathedral last Feb 16, 2013.

I really had no choice but to attend as by default I had to sing with the Music Ministry, even if I cannot sing, as Sis Boots had to lead the CFC Music Ministry.  I was pleasantly surprised as it was quite an experience that ought to be shared.

First, singing with the CFC Music Ministry is exciting! We sang for God and Bishop Noonan, and a church filled with people from all walks of life celebrating their marriage of many years.  I had to shy away from the microphone and had Bro James stand directly below the microphone.  However as we started to sing "You and I" I found some courage to sing aloud.

It was a pleasant experience, especially with Sister Queenie on the violin, Bro Noli D on bass, Bro Conrad guitar, and Sis Boots leading the CFC Music Ministry (Sis Marietta, Agnes, Arsenia, Emily and Bros James, Noli C, Rey, John).  As we sang the first note, I saw heads turning towards to where we were in the balcony. I intended to wave but just smiled.  The second song for offertory, Lord I Give you My Life / Power of Love medley was likewise great.

Second, listening to others recount their married lives briefly was also a surprise.  Some had been married 70+ years, with their husbands serving in Normandy, South Pacific and in other distant places.  Their marriages withstood the wars, years of separation, economic depressions and the boom years of the United States.  They had seen the best and worst of times and managed to be together all these years.  They were genuine sources of inspiration. I nudged Sis Boots and told her we will easily make 50 but she calmly said, let's try for 70. With God's help, we surely will give it a try.

Third, I saw a different side of Bishop Noonan. He managed the crowd very well.  He spoke in English and Spanish and he had the crowd in his hands.  He was very interesting, interviewing couples, exchanging pleasantries and just making everybody feel welcome, blessed, happy and inspired. The Bishop reminded everyone that we should all accept the weaknesses of our spouses and treasure the love that we shared.

Fourth, we did renew our marriage vows.  Having been married for 35+ years and having the marriage blessed all over again was great.  I sometimes take the number of years for granted as we have been together for so long.  The renewal together with other couples in a church filled to capacity, with hundreds recommitting themselves to each other was awesome.

Overall this experience only rekindles our resolve to continue on, with Jesus, in the center of our lives.  I may not be a perfect husband but trying each and everyday is a blessing in itself.

My children, family and friends have been a witness to our lives, but we have done ok so far, despite of being me! With God's grace I will certainly be able to improve in some areas and just keep on working on what needs to be worked on.

Going for 50! How about 70!

Bring it on!

 "to the greater glory of God"