Tribute to Victor and Patricia Rubalcaba-50 Years of Marriage

This is my first blog on the road. I am sitting in a Starbucks in Arizona typing this post as I pay tribute to my mother's brother and his wife. Today we will witness these precious relatives renew their vows in front of God, their eight children and extended family from all over the country. It is such a Blessing to be here with "la familia".

This couple has been so special and today's blog is dedicated to them. They made several video clips that were emailed to family members and there was one message in particular that is really for all of us. My relatives started a St. Vincent De Paul chapter in their hometown and they have spent much of their lives feeding the homeless. As they reached out to family members to announce their anniversary, my uncle Victor made a plea to make sure all family members reach out and give the homeless a snack to eat. My aunt Patty added, "don't just give them a snack, take them out for a meal!" This is what makes this couple so special, they are very focused on the people around them. They also understand that the best way to celebrate the renewal of their vows is to do it at God's table. So today, we have been invited to break Bread with Jesus in His House and witness this extraordinary couple say yes to each other and to God. This is what keep marriages alive. After the banquet, we will go to the park and a feast which will include home-made tamales prepared by this special couple. They are feeding the people that have been invited to their celebration today just like Jesus feeds us at his banquet. Should a homeless person walk up to the party, I know he or she will be welcome to join the anniversary party.

Thank you, uncle Victor and aunt Patty, for being such a great role model for me and my children. Thank you for being advocates for those around us that could use a helping hand. It is so awesome to see you following in your parents footsteps. It seems like yesterday that we were all together to celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary.

I will see you at the party. May God Bless you, your children, and your grandchildren on this special day and all the days ahead of you.