The Seton Hall University Chapel was filled with couples renewing their wedding vows on Friday, Feb. 13, 2015 in the second year of a new St. Valentine’s Day tradition.
The 152-year-old Chapel of the Immaculate Conception, named one of the “31 Insanely Beautiful Colleges You Can Get Married At” by Buzzfeed, provided a backdrop for the couples who renewed their vows at a Catholic Mass celebrated by Fr. Warren Hall. The Mass was followed by a reception at the Chancellor’s Suite in the University Center.
One of the couples attending was Michael and Renee Michaud from Red Lion, Pa. In June 2006, the Michauds were married in the chapel. In attendance were the Renee’s three children. Michael and Renee had each lost a spouse and were starting again with Michael in the new role of father.
“Renee and I had experienced grief and had come back to find love,” said Michaud. “Father Holmes said, ‘Whatever you do, always love like the shepherd.’ Those words are seared into my heart. I can’t wait to come back to relive what it means to have a new beginning.”
Each couple at the Mass had a unique love story connected in some way to Seton Hall University. Many met while attending the University together. Others were married in the chapel and returned to reaffirm their love and commitment.
The event sold out last year when it was introduced, leading to it being held again this year. Based on the feedback from 2015, it’s looking very likely that a third annual Valentine’s Day Renewal of Vows and Reception will be coming in 2016.
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