On July 29, Saturday, my husband and I were invited to witness the wedding of our churchmates. The guests were just a selected few so we felt honored to be part of the guests. It was a very significant event of their lives and we were there to witness it.
There were two parts to the event. The first part was the Temple Wedding where the couple were married and sealed for all time and an eternity inside the Holy Temple of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. For us members, we believe that family relationships perpetuate until the eternities through the ordinances performed inside the holy temple. The ordinance is so sacred that only members who have a temple recommend (passes) can witness it. Photos and video recording is not allowed inside.
The ceremony (or ordinance as we call it) was just quick. In less than an hour it was done. Other guests were waiting outside the temple to welcome the newlyweds.
I love to witness this kind of event. It served as a reminder for me and my husband of the promises we made to each other and to God almost Thirteen years ago. We married also in the temple. As we listened, we were reminded of the blessings we will receive if we hold on and keep our promises.
The Reception was held at Circa 1900 in Lahug, Cebu City just a few meters from the Temple. A garden wedding reception.
While waiting for the bride and groom to arrive, we roamed the venue and took photos with the other guests. There were booths available. The Live photo booth, Dessert booth, and the Photobooth. The Dessert booth was irresistible. I had to dig in and ate some delicious desserts. Opps! Sugar overload! 😂
My husband and I also availed of the Live photo booth. We had our photo taken by one of the in charge and had it painted on paper. We claimed it when the reception was over. And of course, we had our photos taken too at the Photobooth.
The groom and bride finally arrived and it was time for the programme to start. It began with the grand entrance of the principal sponsors, the groom, the bridal entourage then the bride.
We then heard their vows. Everyone was teary-eyed while listening to the couple said each of their vows. Here we can see two imperfect people trying their best to complement each other.
I can't put all into words the joy of that special occasion. Everyone was happy and in celebration mode. There were games that made the entire program more enjoyable. The food was also good!
As I listened, participated, and observed, I reflected on what makes a marriage last. As they say, marriage is not made of two perfect people. But of two imperfect people that love each other amidst each other's imperfections.
We've been married for almost thirteen years now, and I am grateful I made the choice to marry my husband despite our flaws. We made both a promise that we'll care for each other for time and for all eternity. Married life is not a bed of roses. Challenges there and everywhere.
I like to end this blog by sharing to you this quote. "Relationships last long because two brave people made a choice: to keep it, to fight for it, and work for it."
May these newlyweds continue to love and care for each other until the eternities. We were once again grateful for the opportunity to witness such a milestone.
Thank you for reaching this far.
Until next time!
Met