After a hiatus of three years due to the Covid pandemic, the Significant Wedding Anniversary event has returned to the Diocesan calendar. On Saturday 2nd July at St. Bede’s Church, the Holy Ghost Parish hosted 71 couples to celebrate their milestone anniversaries. Following months of planning and preparation for the occasion was a resounding success enjoyed by everyone.
Our enthusiastic team of parish volunteers, ensured that all the elements of a joyful celebration came together to champion the Sacrament of Marriage and to recognise the commitment of those celebrating 25, 30, 40, 50 and even 60 and 70 years of married life.
The participants started the day with light refreshments on arrival followed by a welcome from Fr. Dominic Adeiza the Parish Priest. The Mass at 11 am was celebrated by Bishop Philip in the Church decorated with beautiful floral displays & ribbons, by the flower team. The Bishop was assisted not only by Fr. Dominic but also Fr. Leo Odomeja, Fr. Paul Leonard and by Deacons Tony Darroch and Peter Silsbury. Nearly 400 people attended the Mass during which the couples renewed their vows. The parish choir enhanced the occasion and the Musical Director Chris Olding played some music specially composed for the event. The congregation left the church showered with confetti through the ceremonial door.
A buffet “Wedding Breakfast” was provided in the church hall during which Bishop Philip mingled with all the attendees before cutting the three-tier Wedding Cake.
A feature of the decorated hall was a montage of original wedding photographs of most of those celebrating an anniversary which provided interest, amusement & nostalgia for those present.
Holy Ghost parish has been hosting this event since its inception in 2009 by the Dept. of Pastoral Formation. Since this department was disbanded in 2014 the parish has celebrated the event every year until 2019 when Covid interrupted every aspect of life. It was rewarding to see that during the gap years the parish has lost none of its ability & enthusiasm for organising such a celebration and the Diocese is hugely appreciative of the efforts of so many St. Bede’s parishioners who continue to ensure the occasion is one that will be long-remembered by those taking part. 
Roll on 2023 – date to be advised !!!
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