This last Saturday evening I had the privilege to help a very special couple here in Santa Cruz celebrate 50 years of marriage. That is an amazing accomplishment for Bolivia considering the low level of life expectancy and the high rate of couples who never marry. Avelino and Josefina Perez were married in our Viacha church by Bob Trosen, our first missionary sent to Bolivia by the mission board. Through these years they have learned to grow and mature in their relationship with each other and with God and their faith in Jesus is very evident to all. I have heard Josefina say several times how she had to learn to be a good wife and treat her husband with love. Their love for each other, their children and their neighbors shows clearly in what they do. The celebration was planned by their living children (four sons and two daughters). They had other children who they have already deposited in Heaven and with whom they will some day be reunited.
The celebration itself was a true Bolivian event. Announced for 8 pm it began about 10:30 pm. The main bulk of the celebration was a reaffirmation of their wedding vows. I was pleased to have been asked to do the officiating. Following the ceremony was a reception with lots of LOUD music, a midnight supper and cake around 1 am.
So I add my good wishes for Avelino and Josefina. May God bless their remaining years together with love, goodness and grace.
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| Josefina and Avelino with Jenny and James Wolheter |
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| Sharing cake. |
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| Bryan and Molly Canny share in the festivities. |
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| Niki with Bryan. |
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| Fireworks started off the celebration. |
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