Bishop Thomas John Paprocki | Diocese of Springfield

Over 150 couples and their guests gathered at the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception on September 22 for a Mass celebrating marriages of 50 years or more. The event, held annually by the Diocesan Office of Marriage and Family Life, is one of the most well-attended in recent years.

Among those present were Edward and Patricia Cirks from Our Lady of the Holy Spirit Parish in Mt. Zion, married for 50 years, and Dennis and Donna Schilling from St. Mary Parish in Taylorville, married for 52 years. Steve and Ellen Bowman, also from Mt. Zion, celebrated their anniversary alongside fellow parishioners Edward and Patricia Cirks.

Bishop Thomas John Paprocki led the Mass as principal celebrant with Vicar General Msgr. David Hoefler concelebrating. Bishop Paprocki acknowledged all couples present, highlighting those celebrating their golden anniversaries this year. In his homily, he praised their commitment: “I commend all of you on celebrating your commitment to one another for more than half a century.”

Gracie Ortiz, director of Marriage and Family Life, expressed her admiration for the couples' enduring love: “The biggest question young couples have today when they are contemplating marriage is, ‘Will it last?’ The couples who attended our celebration show all of us that with God’s grace, the answer is ‘Yes.’”

Ortiz observed many acts of care among attendees: husbands wheeling wives in wheelchairs or spouses assisting each other along. She noted these actions as reminders that “we are made to self-gift” and fulfill our missions through matrimony.

After renewing their vows during the Mass, couples received a blessing before taking photos with Bishop Paprocki. Attendees then enjoyed a light reception featuring a slideshow organized by Sister Clementia Toalson.

The event highlighted not only long-lasting marriages but also served as an inspiration to younger generations about enduring love through faith.