Nearly 150 couples celebrating a combined 4,655 years of marriage packed into St. Paul’s in Richmond for the annual Marriage Anniversary Mass, celebrated by Archbishop J. Michael Miller on May 11 in one of his final public events before retiring.
Milestones offer exceptional occasions to reflect on God’s goodness, Archbishop Miller told the couples who came from nearly 40 parishes across the Archdiocese of Vancouver. “Recalling the pivotal moments of your life enables you to renew your commitment to the Lord and each other with gratitude and hope,” he said.
Every couple has its own story, making the milestones even more special, he said. “No doubt you can recall how and where you first met, the conditions of your courtship, and how your love for each other has survived the inevitable times of trial.”
For many the anniversary celebration is a time to reflect on their growing families and, for many, “how your children have spread their wings,” raising grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
“As time passes, there’s no doubt that you recognize that each spouse is an instrument God uses for one spouse to help the other mature and grow in holiness,” the Archbishop said. “At every stage of their married life, couples form each other by guiding their husband or wife to a deeper and more intimate friendship with their partner and the Lord Jesus himself.”
Archbishop Miller thanked the jubilarians for their inspiration to the world and especially young people. “In a culture that idolizes the ephemeral and pleasures of the moment, you jubilarians bear witness to the truth that, in God’s plan, man and woman are created for a faithful lasting love,” he said.
Young people are struggling. Many fear the permanent commitment of marriage—“they can’t imagine placing that much trust in another person,” he said.
“Dear anniversary couples: you bear witness to the good news that the definitive commitment of marriage is not only possible, but also humanly and spiritually rewarding,” he said.
Couples were asked to answer a question: “What would you say to give young couples hope?” The answers were compiled for a video shared on the Archdiocese of Vancouver’s website.
“Life struggles pale in comparison to the joys,” said Alan and Virginia, who were celebrated 45 years of marriage.
Apolinario and Avelina, who were commemorating 55 years of marriage, said their best advice was to “always have faith and trust in the Lord.”
As a final blessing, Archbishop Miller said, “May you continue to radiate to others the beauty and joy of the vocation and mission of married life! Our world needs this Good News. As we continue this Eucharist, let us pray for the Lord’s abundant blessings upon you and your families.”
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