La Sagrada 20/2/10

This one almost seems to easy, but just because it is expected doesn't devalue the divine presence in any way. I attended my first wedding here in Peru on Saturday and experienced the sacrament, the manifestation of the holy, of marriage Peruvian style. Our youth choir was invited to sing for the mass which took place in Cambio Puente, about 25 min. away. I really appreciated two of the symbols the priest shared with the newly married couple. Since it is the start of Lent he talked about the temptations in life and within marriage and how important it is to stay rooted in the commitment this couple is making to one another and to God in the good times and bad. I thought it was really good that he was so realistic in mentioning different temptations that most married couples face and how to overcome those temptations. The bride chose roses for her bouquet and so the priest also talked about the symbol of the rose and how it has thorns that accompany the beauty. He reminded the couple that life isn't just the beauty of the rose petals but that it has thorns too, and they must work together to get through the hard or painful times that life brings. Overall it was a beautiful and simple ceremony. I saw God's presence in the faces of the newlyweds which contained nervousness, excitement, a little fear, and a lot of love. They were taking a leap of faith not knowing what the future might hold for them but trusting in the divine gift of love to be their strength and their guide.