Couples celebrate wedding anniversaries

The couple shared their special day with other couples, who were also celebrating their wedding anniversaries. The event was organised by members of Family Life Desk Married Couples from the Moya Roman Catholic Church based at Esangweni Section.

The event started at the church with a blessing of all the couples and an exchange of rings for Mr and Mrs Mqwati, who also renewed their vows.

The couples spent their day at Erwat. The event was attended by residents and several motorcyclists, who controlled traffic from the church to Erwat.

One of the organisers, Mrs Pinky Dlamini, said they are aiming to inspire the younger generation to marry and stay married.

“Marriage is a sacrament and was made by God. The young people of today do not believe in marriage and that is the first negative step of failing the children of today. Couples should know that a marriage is a blessing,” she said.

Mrs Dlamini added that they do not encourage divorce in society.

“We say no to divorce. When couples have problems, they should communicate and speak to marriage counsellors, pastors or elders who could give them direction,” she said.

Guest speaker Ms Felicia Buthelezi, a marriage counsellor and Chief Editor of I Do magazine, also addressed the couples on how to survive through the challenges of marriage.

Mrs Marry (75) and Mr Bennett (80) Mqwati said it is by the grace of God and pray that their marriage has survived 50 years.

The couple credit the success of their marriage to staying active together, saying they sing and dance together as often as possible.

The couple started dating in 1954 and married in 1964. They were blessed with five children, of which three have died.

Mr Mqwati said they listen to each other and, most importantly, communicate.

“We are best friends and we enjoy our time together. Communication is the tool that kept us going in our marriage,” he added.

He encourages young people to respect and love themselves.