2011 marriage reunion

One of the aspects of my ministry that has brought me a lot of joy has been my married couples reunion. A couple of years after my ordination as a priest I decided to organize a BBQ for all the couples I had married up until then. You see, we would spend quite a bit of time together preparing for their big day, getting to know one another and (of course) sharing in the delight of the wedding itself. The idea of then drifting apart seemed to me to be a shame ā€” hence the reunion. To my delight, many came that first time, and we had such a good time that the event has continued. This past Sunday (September 18) was the 7th marriage reunion, and as you can see from the photo it is turning into quite the family affair!

2011 marriage reunion

It was seeing all these friends again, and to see their kids running around and playing and having fun. I must add a special thank-you to those who organized things this year. Given my episcopal ordination I was not sure Iā€™d be able to do it this year, as I knew I just would not have the time to organize things. To my delight, people took the initiative to contact me and offer to take care of it! I was very touched, and consider this to be one of the kindest gifts I have ever received. I am so glad to know that these bonds of friendship continue.