- Contributed The happy couples, from left, Denis and Maureen Lee; Micheal and Karen Chuck; George and Shirley Rodney, cut their anniversary cake at the Stella Maris Church Hall. Looking on is Monsignor Richard Albert.
Nashauna Drummond, Staff Reporter
THE CROSS at the entrance of Stella Maris glowed admist the darkness in the surrounding communities due to a power outage.
This beacon of light was reminiscent of the love that existed between the three couples inside celebrating 75 years of marriage among them.
In an anniversary mass, officiated by Monsignor Richard Albert and Archbishop of Kingston, Rev. Edgerton Clarke, the couples were recognised by the Stella Maris church community for celebrating 25 years of marriage each. Monsignor Albert said that 25 years is a remarkable step and that marriage is a gift to the church. Each couple received a rosary and a photo blessed by the holy father Pope John Paul II.
Micheal and Karen Chuck who celebrated their 25th anniversary on August 22, told Outlook that their marriage has been "wonderful and trying". They said it survived because of "total trust, total dedication and commitment." Their daughter Lori, says her parents marriage is based upon the honesty and trust that they have for each other. "They are very open," she said. She comments that in a society where divorce is increasing "It's rare, but it's a good example for people to be together so long." She says she hopes her marriage will last as long.
Shirley Rodney who celebrated her 25th wedding anniversary with George on April 2, says, "You don't think that the marriage will last 25 years you just hope." George was an art teacher whom she met when she signed up to do some art classes. Her friend, Patsy Mair, who also signed up for the classes with Shirley, told Outlook, "There was a genuine interest in art and the teacher."
For Denis and Maureen Lee their marriage has survived, they say, because of their love for each other. "There is great love and I enjoyed every moment of it." Maureen told Outlook. She explains that Denis had a crush on her since they were both in high school. He was a student of St. George's High while she attended Immaculate Conception High School. She said he would tell his friends, "That's the girl I'm going to marry."
"These couples are a witness to society that it (marriage) is possible through hard work, Christ and a deep sense of commitment. Married love is possible," Monsignor Albert told Outlook.
