Print edition: 
The first time Marvin Stone Jr. saw his wife-to-be, he was overcome by her voice. He met Patricia one night and the next day convinced his brother to drive up and down the streets of her neighborhood in the hopes he would see her again.
She happened to be sitting on the front porch as they passed.
"The truth is I liked the way she looked, but she had this sultry voice," he said Sunday of his bride of 51 years. "I liked the way she talked."
Glenna Moore said she was smitten by her husband, Morris, because he had nice manners and was considerate. She has stayed by his side for 64 years.
When someone heard that number and exclaimed "Good Lord," 90-year-old Morris Moore said, "Yes, the Lord has been good."
On Sunday, the Stones and Moores were among 12 couples who renewed their wedding vows and one couple who were married at the St. Paul African Methodist Episcopal Church. The day marked Black Marriage Day — set aside on the last Sunday of each March to celebrate marriage.
Nationally, more than 300 African-American communities and neighborhoods hosted events.
"We believe that with a healthy marriage, you have healthy families," said the Rev. Anthony Steele, pastor at St. Paul. "With healthy families you have healthy schools, churches and communities. We believe everything germinates from the idea and institution of marriage."
In preparation for Sunday's ceremonies, Steele said many of the participating church members had undergone a series of Bible studies and learned more about their own marriages.
"On Valentine's Day, these same folks took off with my wife and I, and we went to the movies to see the movie 'Valentine's Day' in Old Town," Steele said. "We've been cultivating this day for a long time."
The tiny church was prepared Sunday for a wedding of major proportions.
Bridesmaids and best men flanked the aisles.
A flower and lace arbor graced the sanctuary.
As the organ pumped out the traditional Wedding March, couples walked on white brocade fabric that had been rolled down the aisle.
As he addressed the congregation, Steele said marriage was a sacred institution that all people should embrace.
"It should be taken seriously whether you have been married one year, two years or 64," he told the congregation. "It is still ordained by God."
Wichita City Council member Lavonta Williams also addressed the crowd of about 100 people, saying she believed many of society's ills could be addressed through healthy marriages.
"Marriage is a stabilizing force in our community and country," Williams said. "A married man and woman have greater financial stability and emotional support."
She took a moment to recognize her husband, Billy D. Williams, of 39 years. The crowd broke into applause.
"Staying married is not an easy job," she said. "We work hard to stay together. Look to these couples, find out how it is done. We all need a mentor."
"These are excellent mentors," Williams said. "I plan on talking to the Moores. I only have 39 years and I want 64. And, I want to look like them when I am 90."
