PROVIDENCE-Married couples from throughout the diocese gathered last Sunday at the Cathedral of SS. Peter and Paul to have their marriages blessed during a Mass celebrated to commemorate Worldwide Marriage Day.
Worldwide Marriage Day is traditionally celebrated throughout the United States on the second Sunday of February for all married couples to renew their sacred commitment to each other. This year, the event coincided with Valentine’s Day.
The Diocese of Providence also holds a special Anniversary Mass, celebrated by Bishop Thomas J. Tobin, every October for couples married 25, 40, 50 and more years.
On Sunday, Msgr. Anthony Mancini was the celebrant of the afternoon Mass, while Deacon Stephen Cote, diocesan coordinator of Marriage Preparation and Enrichment, served as deacon assistant.
“In the face of many assaults on the sacrament in our contemporary culture, it’s very important that we celebrate marriage and family as the foundation of society,” said Msgr. Mancini.
For James and Maryanne Provuncher, who worship at St. James Chapel in Charlestown, the opportunity to have their 27-year marriage blessed was very important.
“This is very special for both of us spiritually, and for the strength of our faith and our marriage,” said Maryanne. “Our wedding day was also a very special day.”
Her husband James added that “communication is the key component” to a successful marriage.
“Laugh every day and don’t take yourself too seriously,” he commented.
Following Mass, the couple planned to visit St. Joseph Cemetery in West Greenwich to place a rose on the grave of Maryanne’s mother, Ann Tansey, who was born on Valentine’s Day.
Amy and Justin Welsh, parishioners of St. Francis of Assisi Church, Wakefield, have been married for five years and read about the special celebration in their parish bulletin.
“I felt is was important to renew our vows,” said Justin.
“We attended to renew our commitment to each other and to honor our marriage,” Amy noted.
“It’s wonderful being married, but it’s not easy,” Justin commented.
Ralph and Kathleen Dykstra, members of the Gregorian Concert Choir and who are cathedral parishioners, attended the Mass to celebrate Worldwide Marriage Day.
“I thank God every day for my marriage,” said Kathleen, adding that the couple has been married for 24 years. “It was nice to declare our marriage publicly and have it blessed by monsignor.”
Marie and Joseph Almagno, visiting the area from Naples, Fla., have been married for 47 years and met while attending CYO activities held at St. Bartholomew Church in Providence.
“He makes me laugh,” Marie commented. “Every day is an adventure.”
Deacon Cote was pleased that so many couples attended the celebration, and brought children and other relatives to witness the marriage blessing.
“We need a day like this to recognize all marriages, whether they are newlyweds or senior citizens,” he said. “Marriage and family are the foundations of our society.”
For more information about programs offered by the diocesan Office of Marriage Preparation and Enrichment, call 278-4576.
