More than 100 people from all over Lithuania gathered to welcome the jubilarians who arrived by carriage in front of the Smilgiai St. George’s Church. During the Holy Mass, a touching sermon about family values was heard, prayers were said for the spouses, their relatives, and the entire Smilgiai community. The special Holy Mass also included a ring blessing ceremony, which became one of the most beautiful moments of the celebration.
Read more Chinese-made aircraft completed its first international commercial flight
On behalf of the mayor of Panevėžys district municipality, Antanas Pocius, the spouses were congratulated by the deputy mayor of the municipality, Rimantas Pranys. They were presented with a framed copy of the marriage certificate – a symbolic reminder of the promise made fifty years ago and the strength of the family.
“Your positivity, energy, and attitude towards life inspire such anniversaries to become a beautiful occasion to gather and enjoy this moment with loved ones and the whole community. I sincerely congratulate you on reaching the honorable 50-year wedding anniversary and wish you many more bright years surrounded by your loved ones,” said Rimantas Pranys, deputy mayor of Panevėžys district municipality, while congratulating the jubilarians.
After the Holy Mass, the celebration moved to the Smilgiai ethnographic homestead. Here the spouses were greeted by the traditional “bromas,” and the attendees enjoyed refreshments, live music, and the resonant songs of the Smilgiai choir.
This year is special for the Ambotas family for several beautiful anniversaries. Birutė turned 75 this year, and Romualdas is 70. Recalling their youth, they said they met at a dance. Romualdas, originally from Ramygala, immediately noticed the girl from the Kupiškis region. This acquaintance soon grew into a lifelong partnership.
Read more First after the dash – Ieva Gumbs left in the worst place: «Adrenaline was overwhelming»
Birutė dedicated her life to education – she worked as a history teacher and later was the deputy director of a school. Today she is the elder of Smilgiai and, together with Romualdas, who still works in construction, actively participates in community life. The couple raised three children – two sons and a daughter, enjoy seven grandchildren, and like to spend their free time actively – from tennis and kayaking to hiking and basketball.
“Over the years, we have realized that the most important thing in life is to share positive energy, enjoy every day, and inspire others with it. Also, in the family – it is necessary to value each other, to be able to be tolerant and patient. After all, pride in the family never helps to create a harmonious relationship, so respect and the ability to understand help to move forward together and overcome all hardships,” Birutė said.
Panevėžys district municipality nurtures a special tradition of congratulating on jubilee marriages. Families celebrating 50 or more years of living together are invited to inform the Civil Registry and Archives Department. Couples celebrating their anniversary will be personally honored and congratulated by the district mayor.
Read more Two Lithuanian beach volleyball teams started the European Championship victoriously
Photo gallery:
