During weddings or holy matrimony, the husband is advised to love his wife as Christ loves the Church; conversely, the wife is advised to submit to her husband in everything. However, husbands often remember that God asked the wife to submit, neglecting the command to love their wives first.

This statement emphasises that couples should love one another because they have become one. A man who does not first love his wife should not expect her respect.

These words were spoken by Bishop Godfrey Onah on Saturday, August 31, as he celebrated the 50th wedding anniversary (Golden Jubilee) of Mr. Matthew and Regina Ayogu, bestowing upon them a basket of blessings. 

The  celebration of love took place at Our Lady of Fatima Parish, Odenigwe Nsukka. Surprisingly, the couples were also affectionately referred to as "Mama" and "Papa Father," indeed a well-rooted Christ-like family.

During the marriage talk, the Catholic Bishop of Nsukka Diocese emphasised that couples often forget the principles of love and submission, as well as the promises made at the altar, just a few months after their wedding. 

He praised the spouse as they renew their marriage vows during the occasion. “The life and marriage of Regina and Matthew today is worthy of emulation by young couples," said the Bishop.

He recounted that in the past, weddings were not as glamorous as they are today. However, after witnessing modern weddings—the bridal training, the decorations, etc.—one might begin to wonder if it is heaven on earth. 

“Actually, Jesus Christ used weddings to exemplify heaven, meaning that weddings should be the beginning of an endless love between husband and wife. However, after all the money spent and everything, two months later, some couples may begin to file for divorce,” he stated.

Bishop Onah further explained that this indicates that the simplicity and glamour of a wedding are not what should be celebrated. 

He therefore asserted that ‘fidelity’ is the key to every marriage and that fidelity, as simple as it sounds, is priceless. “Whatever will hold a marriage together is the reciprocation of love from both parties; if not, such a marriage will fall apart,” he said.

"I want to advise everyone aspiring to enter marriage that it is not as sweet as it appears because one will not know what is involved until you step in," he cautioned.

“In life, when one looks at another person's journey, it may seem easy and simple, but there are many complexities involved.” He reiterated that young couples should seek out people like Regina and Matthew and ask them how they have been living peacefully for 50 years.

Using currency as a case study, he said, “N200, for instance, has two faces, but if what is supposed to be on the other side is missing, it will no longer be valid. Also remember that the dirtier the currency, the more hands that have touched it and the more needs it has satisfied. 

"Marriages are like old and clean N200 notes; the needs one has not satisfied mean that it has not solved any problem, hence the lesser its value.”

The Bishop continued as the congregation paid rapt attention. He explained that some marriages are like a clean slate, and unless the husband and wife complement each other, such a marriage will not last.

Finally, he stated that the stability of any marriage is given by God; the presence of the marriage before God is very important. Once you notice any sign, tell Mother Mary that the wine has finished. God is always there to intervene.

He advised those experiencing marital issues, saying, “Your marriage may have failed, but your value still remains as long as your relationship with God is stable. Sometimes, counterfeit seems better than the original; your life may be shining, but it is counterfeit unless it is based in the Lord. Whatever you do, do it in the name of the Lord.” Amen.

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Written by (Impeccable 💖)