4 couples marking golden years honored

CEBU, Philippines — Four couples were honored yesterday by the Couples for Christ (CFC)–Cebu Chapter for reaching 50 years of marriage.

Among them were Alfredo and Adelina Castañares, who just renewed their marital vows on their golden anniversary on May 3.

The couples were recognized for proving that divine providence is a significant factor to a long-lasting relationship.

The recognition was part of CFC’s 29th anniversary, which was attended by over 12,000 members, including the Kids for Christ and Youth for Christ.

Adelina, 72, said there is no secret to a successful marriage because all this time it was God who walked them through this far.

“If there are trials and challenges, never give up. At the end of the day, love conquers all and God will always make a way,” she said.

She added they also changed the way they handle their differences and resort to prayers allowing God to grant them enlightenment, guidance and strength for them to face any obstacle.

Alfredo, 75, said husbands, being the head of the family, should not allow arguments and fights to last until the next day or for a month because in worst cases, these may result to separation or divorce.

But for him, it was an advantage that they entered the religious organization, CFC, because it also changed their lifestyle especially in nourishing their spirituality wherein they get to pray the rosary more often.

The Castañares couples said it is also important for parents to cultivate love in the family so that their children too will value their members once they build their own.

On the other hand, couple Helen and Antonio Felipe, who are also married for 50 years, said love, forgiveness and patience are the keys to longer marriage life. They tied the knot on May 10, 1969.

Helen said couples should be God-fearing and obedient to God’s words or commandments, such as avoiding adultery or unfaithfulness.

The four couples received blessings from outgoing Cebu Auxiliary Bishop Dennis Villarojo during a Mass that kicked off yesterday’s activity held at the Cebu City Sports Center.

Victoriano Mayor, provincial area director of CFC-Cebu, said one of the main highlights of the 29th anniversary is the holding of mass weddings per parish.

From January to this month, he said, more than 100 live-in partners were able to avail of the mass weddings through the organization’s Christian Life Program.

He said the ministry for “couples” for Christ has been inviting non-married partners to join them and participate in the months-long program.

Once they complete the program, he said, the CFC ministry will assist couples financially and spiritually.  (FREEMAN)