Love and Promises

SEPARATION and divorce seem to be a normal thing in today’s setting. We seldom find a couple managing to stay together through thick and thin.

But in Cagayan de Oro, I got a rare opportunity of witnessing a ceremony where 22 couples renewed their vows.

The couples publicly re-commit their relationship by expressing their enduring love for each other.

Vow renewal involves no legal paperwork. Thus, it is not a legally binding ceremony since married couples are already bound for life the day when they got married.

CAGAYAN DE ORO. Joey P. Nacalaban and his wife Maria Theresa (Nicole J. Managbanag)

On May 20, the 22 couples renewed their vows at the Philadelphian Full-Gospel Worldwide Ministries Inc. in Barangay Indahag under the leadership of Supreme Bishop Dr. Romeo D. Puentespina.

I witnessed the occasion since a very good friend of mine, Joey Nacalaban, SunStar Cagayan de Oro’s photojournalist, is among those who renewed his vow to his wife of 22 years, Maria Theresa.

Joey invited me to be their official photographer. He wanted that day to be hassle-free so he tagged me along to do his work, even just for that special occasion.

During that big day, love was in the air as the brides were beautifully made up, dressed in their wedding gowns.

The grooms were equally handsome in their tuxedos and barongs, waiting for their brides to walk down the aisle.

Everyone seemed so excited and sentimental, just like the first time when they walked down the aisles many years ago.

My heart was oozing with sentiment, seeing the grooms took the hand of their brides and head toward the altar along with their children and some grandchildren.

The mass renewal of vows was somehow the most essential element for the couples as it was the perfect time for them to pause and reflect on where they have been, what they have gone through, and where they are heading.

My captured photos had given me an impression that these couples who recited the same words they uttered during their wedding are more attuned to the present state of their relationship. They looked happier and more relaxed during their renewal of vows as they have given love another chance, this time, it would certainly be much sweeter.

As the wedding is about to end, Pastor Romie officially proclaimed to the public that the couples have officially renewed their vows to each other, promising to hold on to each other through thick and thin.

The happy couples, including Joey, danced the waltz, feeling super happy and in love again for the second time around.

While the couples were dancing, their children were also transformed into waiters and waitresses as they prepared the venue for the reception.

It was a very happy occasion that even their children performed songs and served them food.

After the celebration, I went home pondering if I could also renew my vow with my husband. At the same time, I felt happy that I was able to witness this event, which I considered historic.