8 of 17

Jack Velazco escorts his mother Angelica Ramirez down the aisle. His mother and her groom were one of seven couples whose marriages were validated during a Mass at St. Mary Magdalene Parish on Feb. 15. Bishop Joseph Perry administered the sacrament to the seven couples that took classes for three months. During an announcement at the end of the Mass, Father Freddy Washington said the children of the couples were happy. “Now that our parents are married in this church we can take Communion as a family.” said Washington, speaking for the children.

Photo: Natalie Battaglia / Catholic New World