Last Friday, 11 couples made a public marriage commitment in the Pueblo de Palmo community of the Rio Grande Valley. Buckner International President Albert Reyes officiated the ceremonies.

Forsaking all else, for reconciliation, for what is to come the union of people in love is a holy thing. Pueblo de Palma is Spanish for Village of Palm. In ancient times, palm branches were a sign of revolution. In the gospel narrative, Jesus’ entrance into Jerusalem is not without the political symbol for unrest. But the King in his new regime brought peace to those who had nothing to go back to and a promise for better days to come, motivated in love.

For that night, and forever afterwards, until death parts them, the community there in Penitas has these families and their example, reminders of where holiness resides.