On the evening of July 25, Lin'an Gospel Church in Hangzhou was illuminated as couples gathered for the "Love's Covenant" gathering hosted by the church's Benchmark Fellowship group. The event provided a space for married couples to reaffirm their commitments and reflect on the blessings of Christ-centered marriage.
The evening began with worship in song. Melodies of The Couple's Song and Let Me Say Thank You filled the sanctuary.
Pastor Zhou Hongwei then led the congregation in reading Ephesians 5:22–25, reminding everyone of the biblical calling and responsibility within marriage. In his message titled "Love's Covenant: The Secret to a Blessed Marriage," he encouraged couples to remain rooted in truth, to cherish one another, and to see their marital commitment as a reflection of God's faithfulness.
As the night deepened, couples stepped forward in pairs amid joyful applause. In one of the most moving moments of the evening, each couple recited the following covenant:
"I thank God for His most beautiful arrangement in bringing us together as husband and wife. I vow to care for you for the rest of my life. Whether rich or poor, in sickness or in health, through ease or hardship, whether in the beauty of youth or the aging of years, I will love and respect you with unwavering devotion. I will cherish your differences and, with God's strength and help, bear with one another in love. Together, we will build a Christ-centered, joy-filled marriage. I vow to remain faithful to you in the Lord and to walk hand in hand with you until we enter heaven together."
As husbands presented roses to their wives, the sanctuary was filled with tenderness and delight. Later, a series of interactive games brought even more joy to the room. During the "Love Confession" segment, many spouses took to the stage to express gratitude and love for one another.
As the evening drew to a close, couples departed with renewed devotion and fresh encouragement to walk together in love.
Originally published by the Gospel Times
- Edited and translated by Katherine Guo
