The first wedding ceremony took place in Christ Cathedral, following the cathedral’s dedicated in July 2019. Christine Brito and Freddy Hernandez were wed Feb. 8 at 12:30 p.m. in front of 150 wedding guests. Deacon Cruz Pleitez presided with Fr. Mario Juarez, who pronounced the couple husband and wife.
On the distinction of being the first to be married in the cathedral, the bride said, “We were truly honored. We have been together for 12 years and our selection felt fitting. My son and little brother were baptized by Deacon Cruz. My mother and stepfather were married by Father Mario in the Arboretum. My husband and I completed our confirmation and community service under the RCIA with Faustino Rubio at Christ Cathedral. Our family has built memories and community there and everything felt perfect.”
As grand as the cathedral is, its layout offers an intimate setting for weddings. The lighting, the visuals on the screens, the acoustics and the personal touches of cantors, candles and flowers create a personal experience.
“Our guests were impressed and stunned by the beautiful architecture and they were eager to learn more about the cathedral,” the bride said.
She continued, “The most unforgettable memory for me will always be walking to the shrine of Our Lady of Guadalupe with our blessed bouquet to pray together as a couple. I cried and deeply reflected on all the ways we were grateful, and happy to have married the love of my life. The altar had a powerful presence on me and I will never forget it.”