Couples Renew Wedding Vows at Buffalo Chapel

Christ the King Chapel hosts annual Valentine's Day vow renewal ceremony

Published on Feb. 16, 2026

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Couples of all ages gathered at Christ the King Chapel at Canisius University in Buffalo, New York to renew their wedding vows this past Valentine's Day weekend. The celebration brought together young families and couples who have spent decades building a life together, all returning to reflect on the promises they made.

Why it matters

The vow renewal ceremony at Christ the King Chapel is an annual tradition that highlights the importance of marriage and commitment in the Catholic faith community. It provides an opportunity for couples to reaffirm their love and dedication to one another, setting an example for the community.

The details

The vow renewal ceremony was officiated by Fr. Fred Betti, S.J., the Chaplain at Canisius University. In the Catholic tradition, the exchange of vows is seen as a sacrament, with the couple serving as the ministers. Couples of all ages participated, including Paula and Tom Elsinghorst, who have been married for 43 years, and Luke and Kristina Reynolds, who met in the chapel choir and were married there nearly 7 years ago.

  • The vow renewal ceremony took place on Sunday, February 16, 2026.
  • The event was held just after Valentine's Day, which Father Betti said is a good season to celebrate love.

The players

Fr. Fred Betti, S.J.

The Chaplain at Canisius University who officiated the vow renewal ceremony.

Paula and Tom Elsinghorst

A couple who have been married for 43 years and participated in the vow renewal ceremony.

Luke and Kristina Reynolds

A couple who met in the choir at Christ the King Chapel, where they were also married, and returned to renew their vows.

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What they’re saying

“It's a beautiful message, beautiful statement of who we are as a faith community, and how important marriage is for us.”

— Fr. Fred Betti, S.J., Chaplain, Canisius University

“We live our vows every day. A lot of that is just kindness and kindness and respect to each other and supporting each other, and that looks different every single day.”

— Paula Elsinghorst

“I think it's keep dating your wife, going out, finding time to be together, making special moments and don't let things become routine.”

— Tom Elsinghorst

What’s next

The chapel plans to continue hosting the annual vow renewal ceremony, providing an opportunity for couples to reaffirm their commitment to one another in the presence of their faith community.

The takeaway

The vow renewal ceremony at Christ the King Chapel demonstrates the enduring importance of marriage and commitment in the Catholic faith community. By bringing together couples of all ages to renew their vows, the event sets an example of the power of love, kindness, and respect to sustain long-lasting relationships.