Wedding at residence for people with HIV/AIDS viewed as sign of hope

Published: 2006-11-27

TULSA, Okla. (CNS) -- The tiny chapel was packed, and nearly 50 people were wall-to-wall in the living room next door watching on live video as two residents of St. Joseph Residence celebrated the sacrament of marriage at the home operated by Catholic Charities for people with HIV/AIDS. Karla Tejada became the wife of Wayman Chadwick Nov. 17, an occasion that celebrant Father David Medina said brought great joy to him and all the people present. "I am excited because finally this day has arrived, after all the planning and exciting moments," he said. "This is an honor for me to be here witnessing the love you will exchange from now on." The couple moved into an apartment of their own that night. Tejada had lived at St. Joseph for the past four years, and she met her future husband when Chadwick moved in a year ago.

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