21 Couples Renew Wedding Vows During Special Ceremony
By Mark Abrams
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- Twenty-one couples who live at Paul's Run retirement community in Northeast Philadelphia renewed their wedding vows Wednesday during a special recognition of long-time married couples.
Pastor Stephen Weisser led the couples in reciting their vows once again, gave them and their family members and caregivers a special blessing, and then offered that line we hear at the end of traditional vows.
"You may kiss the bride."
Among the couples, long-time Philadelphia residents Philip and Bernice Slosburg who are celebrating 64 years of marriage.
At 88, Slosburg also known as Phil "Sonny" Slosburg, is recognized as one of the oldest living retirees who played in the National Football League. The 1948 Temple grad played two seasons - first with the Boston Yanks in 1948 and for the New York Bulldogs in 1949.
What's the secret to a long marriage? Sonny says it comes down to two words.
"Love and happiness."
Bernice says she met the love of her life thanks to a group of girls who hung out with Phil. He didn't remember, but Bernice reminded him how it all went down.
"You were pretty much introduced to us, our family."
Their marriage produced three sons, three grandchildren, and six great-grandchildren.
And, a lifetime of memories.