Last Thursday marked a long-awaited and joyful day for couples in the UK and around the world. The Marriage Celebration, held once a year at the Universal Church in Kilburn, brought together families and loved ones to witness and celebrate one of life’s most sacred unions — marriage.
This special event, hosted by the Love Therapy was part of a global celebration that took place in 58 countries, with a total of 2,170 couples participating
The Love Team, together with Pastor Peter and his wife, who oversees the Love Therapy, ensured that every detail was carefully prepared to welcome the brides and grooms.
The couples arrived at 6pm, warmly greeted by pastors and their wives who assisted them with preparations and a photo session to commemorate the day.
At 8pm, the ceremony began with an opening prayer by Pastor Peter, followed by the entrance of Bishop James Marques, who oversees the work of the Universal Church in the UK. Accompanied by his wife, Helena, both beaming with joy as they made their way down the aisle to witness two becoming one, as described in Mark 10:8: “…and the two will become one flesh.”
Bishop James and his wife led the ceremony. The message from the Altar to all present was for them to understand marriage through God’s perspective.
He reminded everyone that God has always desired a close, intimate relationship with humanity — a relationship mirrored in the covenant of marriage. From the Garden of Eden where God walked with Adam and Eve, to the Tabernacle during the time of Moses, and later, the Temple of Solomon. God has continuously sought to dwell among His people. Just as God commits Himself to us, He expects that same level of commitment and love to be mirrored in our marriages.
Referencing 1 Peter 3:7, Bishop James emphasised that the way we treat our spouse reflects how we treat God. If a husband mistreats his wife, his prayers will be hindered — and vice versa. He explained that when a marriage lacks God’s presence, it often reveals not only a disconnection between the couple, but also a spiritual disconnection from God.
Bishop highlighted three essential principles for a blessed marriage:
The most anticipated part of the evening arrived as the couples stood on the Altar to exchange vows. Bishop James addressed them with profound words:
“After your relationship with God, this is the most important moment of your life. You are getting married before the eyes of God on the Altar.”
Vows and rings were exchanged and each couple sealed their commitment with a kiss. The church united in prayer, with all pastors and their wives formed a circle around the couples to bless them. The evening concluded with the signing of the wedding register and celebrations among family and friends.
Jefferson and Petra, who received the blessing on the Altar, shared their thoughts on the experience:
“We chose to get married at this event because it was a special opportunity to receive the blessing from the Altar. We also completed the Marriage Course, which opened our minds and prepared us for this next step. The event was beautifully organised, and sharing the moment with others made it even more special. The blessing from the Altar means everything to us — it’s the foundation of a blessed marriage. Knowing we’ll face challenges together, when we receive God’s blessing, He will guide us. It was an amazing experience!”
If you weren’t able to attend this year’s Marriage Celebration, there’s still an opportunity to invest in your relationship. Join us for the Love Therapy seminars every Thursday at 8pm. We’re currently exploring the Tools of Intelligent Love. Come and discover what the next tool will be.
Event: The Love Therapy Seminars
Day and time: Every Thursday at 8pm
Location: The Cathedral of Miracles, Rainbow Theatre, 232 Seven Sisters Road, Finsbury Park, London, N4 3NX (outside London via conference)
