The celebration of the Feast of Saints Anne and Joachim on July 26 at La Divina Pastora, Siparia, was a truly beautiful and inspiring experience. Guided by the theme Rooted in Faith, Growing in Love, the event highlighted the essential role of faith in sustaining couples throughout their vocation.
The celebration began with a special Mass for married couples officiated by parish priest Fr Santhosh Puliyammakkal MSFS and saw at least 44 couples in attendance.
As a married woman, one of the most moving moments for me was the renewal of marriage vows during the Mass. Each time I renew those promises, I am reminded of the commitment my husband and I made before God and our loved ones. It is always an emotional experience, as it encourages me to consciously reflect on those vows and renew my resolve to honour them as faithfully as I can.
Another highlight of the celebration was the testimony shared by Shane and Kris-Ann Kissoondath from the Tortuga Parish. Their presentation resonated deeply with me, not only because they have been married for a similar length of time as I have, but also because of their openness and honesty in sharing their journey.
They spoke about the transition from being best friends before marriage to facing the realities and challenges that often come after marriage. Their willingness to discuss their struggles and efforts to overcome them was both refreshing and encouraging.
What touched me most was hearing both perspectives of their story. Listening to what each person was thinking and feeling, and the ways in which they sometimes misunderstood one another, shed light on many of the challenges I am currently facing within my own marriage.
Hearing Shane explain the emotions and intentions behind some of his decisions gave me a new perspective and offered possible insight into some of my own husband’s actions—things I may not have previously considered.
Most importantly, their testimony was a powerful reminder of the transformative grace of God. They shared how they came from a place where they were close to giving up, yet through faith, perseverance, and God’s intervention, they experienced a breakthrough and emerged with a stronger relationship, deeper faith, and greater love for one another.
Their story became a beacon of hope for me. It reminded me that if God could work so powerfully in their marriage, He can do the same in mine.
Overall, the Feast Day celebration was uplifting, faith-filled, and deeply meaningful. It provided an opportunity not only to celebrate Saints Anne and Joachim, the patron saints of married couples, parents, and grandparents, but also to reflect on the beauty, challenges, and sacred calling of marriage. I left feeling inspired, encouraged, and renewed in my faith and in my commitment to my vocation as a wife.
Couples marking milestone anniversaries—10, 25, 40, 50, and 60 years—were honoured with gifts from the parish, while all couples received tokens including a unity candle and prayers for continued grace in their vocation. —Chrystal Diaz