From a Disco Ball at the Brotherhood of the Holy Spirit (IES) to the Altar of the Five Wounds Church: Our Love Journey

Today, as we celebrate our 45th wedding anniversary, I look back with emotion on how our story began: a classic Disco-era dance at the Brotherhood of the Holy Spirit (IES) Portuguese Hall in San José, right next to the Five Wounds Church—where, shortly thereafter, we would seal our love. Under the glow of strobe lights and energized by a Portuguese band, I met Judy and realized life had something extraordinary in store for us.

1. The Meeting at the Brotherhood of the Holy Spirit (IES)

It was a winter night in 1979, precisely January 21, when, guided by curiosity, I entered the hall of the Brotherhood of the Holy Spirit in San José. I had just finished dancing with Judy’s sister, Geri, who then led me to her sister, who was seated. That was the moment I was introduced to Judy. We talked for a few minutes—sharing shy smiles and brief stories—and on impulse, I asked her to dance. Twirling to the Disco beat under the mirrored globe’s sparkle, I knew we would be inseparable from that moment on.

A week later, we were both invited to a mutual friend’s birthday party. That celebration saw Geri and Judy’s cousin Jeannette chaperoning us. Amid laughter and lively conversation, I gathered the courage to ask Judy to be my girlfriend—and she said yes, officially marking the beginning of our relationship.

2. The First Months of Getting to Know Each Other

Those early dances and gatherings sparked conversations that connected our cultural roots and love for music and dance. I shared memories of my childhood in Angola, while Judy spoke of family celebrations in San Jose and Hollister, California, as we explored San José together—visiting cafés, cinemas, and small local nightclubs. It was through these moments that we built a bond strong enough to withstand the test of time.

3. Building a Shared Dream

In the months that followed, we supported each other through job changes and daily routines, discovering the strength of growing together as a team. We planned short getaways—Monterey and Half Moon Bay became our weekend havens. More than simple trips, these escapes affirmed we were steadily building a life dream together.

4. The Big Day at the Five Wounds Church

On April 26, 1980, we walked across the courtyard of the Five Wounds Church—the very landmark of our first meeting—to unite our lives in marriage. The solemn architecture and warmth of the Portuguese-American community made the moment truly unforgettable. As I spoke my vows, I felt not only my love for Judy but also the presence of all those who, over generations, had gathered there in faith and unity.

5. Reflections and Gratitude

Forty-five years later, I recall every step—from spinning on the IES dance floor to walking down the church aisle—and realize the love born at a simple Disco ball blossomed into a life filled with achievements: children, grandchild, careers, and shared memories. Judy remains my partner in life’s dance, and with her, I joyfully celebrate this milestone, grateful for every step we have taken together.

Published on April 26, 2025, on elmirochaves.com