16 de septiembre (Mexican Independence Day) is an ideal time for me to reflect on just one story of many in my family's rich Mexican historia. My grandparents on my mother's side lived (survived) the infamous Cristero Revolution in Mexico. During a time when Catholic priests were being martyred, my grandparents risked their lives to have the holy sacrament of marriage bestowed on them by a Catholic priest. That priest in turn risked his life to perform the blessed ritual.
I remember hearing the story of my grandparents having been married in a cave in Mexico because the government had outlawed Catholic ceremonies and gatherings of any kind. Many priests were killed for ignoring the law and performing the rites anyway. My grandparents' anniversary was June 24, 1928. It was the day we always celebrated. But not until they were both deceased, did we learn that their true 'official' date of matrimony (officially recognized by the courts) was about 3 weeks later in mid July.
It amazes me that they risked death in order to be bound by God in His holy Catholic church. What amazes me even more is that my grandmother was only 14 when my grandfather (24) married her and brought her to the U.S. Makes me wonder if she even had a choice or say in the matter. How utterly terrifying and yet brave she must have been. God bless you Grandma. For I know that I inherited your strength and fortitude.
No comments:
Post a Comment