The Seaview Gardens Seventh-day Adventist (SDA) Church celebrated a heartwarming and unforgettable family life day on September 14, 2024, under the theme, "All the Family in Mission, Fulfilling God's Purpose." The event was organized by the church’s husband and wife family ministries leader duo of Ian and Teslin Patterson and culminated in the afternoon with 20 couples renewing their marriage vows while celebrating the beauty of marriage and the family.
Pastor Ralston Tyrell, pastor of the Penwood district of churches and pastor of the Seaview Gardens SDA Church, was more than happy for the opportunity to speak to the couples on this special occasion and encouraged them during his charge, to continue to love and care for each other. “I congratulate each of you for your show of love and devotion to each other and encourage you to be a shining example of what marriage should be and in so doing that your marriage will be an inspiration to the next generation.”
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The institution of marriage was highlighted in a positive way by the couples who came to participate in this grand ceremony. The couple who had the distinction of being being married for the longest was Elder Donald Atkins and his wife Florence, who said the service brought back fond memories of their wedding day over forty six years ago. According to Elder Atkins, “the four letter word LOVE has kept us together over these many years and we were very elated that our two daughters, Charlene Atkins Israel and Monique Atkins Cornwall were in the re-commitment service with their spouses. This was very special for us.” Both Elder Atkins and his wife felt that it would be a good idea to have another ceremony like this in the future.
Bro. Marvin Collins and wife Latoya Smith Collins at three years, were the youngest couple to participate in the re-commitment service as they tied the knot in May, 2021.
“This was a great initiative,” Collins said, when he was asked to provide feedback on the day’s activities. “We are so thankful for the institution of marriage that Christ has set up for us to live together and am inspired by the example that has been set for us by Elder Atkins who has been with his wife for forty six years.” Collins spoke for many other couples when he expressed that he was happy for the service today. “I am also happy to know that the church is catering for different facets our lives,” he said noting that the service was quite helpful to him and his wife. “It has brought back good memories of our wedding day and I am very happy we were here today,” Collins said.
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The re commitment service was chaired by Sis. Marcia Guthrie and Elder Hazel Birch who said the right words which added to the beauty and solemnity of the occasion. The wives had no choice but to feel extra special as a church sister who owns a bridal boutique offered the wedding gowns for free for the afternoon. Many of the children were delighted to see their parents in wedding attire and for some, it was the first time they were seeing their parents kiss in public.
The church was also beautifully decorated for the occasion and the couples were treated with a celebratory cake that was also donated by a member of the church.
Sis. Teslin Patterson was very pleased with how things had turned out on this special day that was dedicated to the married couples. “I am happy for the opportunity that was given us today to remind our couples that marriage is for keeps and it can only get better if we have Christ at the center of our marriage,” Patterson said. “There will be disagreements in moments of frustration but everything can be worked out once we allow the Lord to take control,” she added.
Each couple was presented with a signed re-commitment certificate as a keepsake, symbolizing their renewed dedication to one another and their families. Through this event, the Seaview Gardens SDA Church reaffirmed its commitment to nurturing strong, faith-based families that fulfill God's purpose while continuing the church's mission of building a community centered on Christian love and unity.With declarations of love by candlelight, this re commitment service was truly inspiring, showing the congregation the enduring blessings of marriage.
Phillip Castell contributed information to this article.
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