Hundreds of Couples with Long-Lasting Marriages Honored

Date: October 1, 2014

ROCKFORD—“One of the most attractive elements of silver and gold…is that deep down, they never lose their shine. They may have a little tarnish on the outside…but the glitter is always there.”

So said Bishop David Malloy to couples celebrating 25, 50 or more years of marriage at the diocese’s annual Silver and Gold Mass, Sept. 28, at the Cathedral of St. Peter. More than 200 couples from across the diocese attended the Mass making this year’s Silver and Gold celebration the largest gathering since the event began in 1987.

Among those honored were Louis and Agnes Verbout of St. Mary Parish, Sterling, who were the longest-wed couple honored at the Silver and Gold Mass. They have been married 67 years. Janet and Floyd Bennett of Sacred Heart Parish in Sterling were honored for their 65th anniversary. Louis and Janet are brother and sister.

Read more in The Observer Oct. 3.