St Stephen’s Lindley celebrated Marriage Sunday, the day after Valentine’s Day with a special service to celebrate marriage.
“We invite couples who have married at St Stephen's in the last few years, and those who will be getting married here in the next year, to come to church on this special day,” explained Vicar, Rachel Firth, “so we can pray for them and support them in their marriages”.
Two years ago, the Church warden and his wife renewed their vows after 25 years, and this year Neil and Rachael Salmon renewed their marriage vows in the heart of their church community after 15 years of marriage.
Over a dozen couples came along to the service including one couple with their baby daughter – soon to be baptised.
“With all the fuss about Valentine’s, it’s a great opportunity to remind people of God’s love and help alongside them as they get ready to marry, give thanks for the joys of their married life or ask God’s help with its challenges”, said Rachel.
“It’s also an opportunity to invite in people who are interested but perhaps more on the edge of our church community and reassure them as often as we can that they are welcome.”
Perhaps the greatest wisdom, came from a group of 7-11’s at the service who said:
“Sometimes marriages end and hearts get broken. But God will help our hearts to mend if we ask him to.”