On 12 September 2023, a significant milestone was noted as Saint Mary’s Catholic Church in Newport, Rhode Island commemorated the 73rd anniversary of the wedding between John F. Kennedy and Jacqueline Bouvier. The couple married in a ceremony attended by approximately 600 guests, marking the beginning of a prominent and historic partnership.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(jpeg)/jfk-wedding-rhode-island-3-091526-8a37e56dcc3342e39ff0e35eea2cd041.jpg)
The couple, who were wed in 1953, chose Saint Mary’s, a church rich with heritage, as the venue for their nuptials. Each year, the church pays homage to the late president and first lady, creating an annual event that draws attention from visitors and locals alike. This year’s festivities included a selection of organ music synonymous with the Kennedy family, designed to evoke the atmosphere of their historic wedding day.
Alongside the musical tributes, the church showcased various artifacts from the wedding itself, including the kneelers that the couple used during their vows. This thoughtful display allows attendees to connect with the significant moments of the ceremony and reflect on the legacy of the couple.
The wedding was officiated by Archbishop Richard Cushing of Boston, marking a notable event in the church’s history. Jacqueline, affectionately known as Jackie, wore a stunning gown crafted from ivory tissue silk taffeta, designed by Anne Lowe. The gown featured a fitted bodice, portrait neckline, and a voluminous bouffant skirt that blended traditional style with modern embellishments. John F. Kennedy complemented his bride with a classic black suit jacket and pinstriped trousers, epitomising the fashion of the era.
Prior to their marriage, JFK proposed to Jackie on June 24, 1953, presenting her with a striking 2.88-carat emerald-cut diamond ring sourced from the renowned jeweller Van Cleef & Arpels. This romantic gesture, followed by their wedding, marked the start of a life intertwined with both public service and private challenges.
In the years following their nuptials, the Kennedys maintained a regular presence at Saint Mary’s Church, often attending Sunday Mass and frequently occupying pew number ten. Newport was not only a place of worship for them but also a refuge where they spent weekends away from the pressures of public life, allowing for a sense of normalcy in the midst of their high-profile roles.
Saint Mary’s Catholic Church holds a deeply rooted history that dates back to its consecration in November 1828, making it Rhode Island’s first Catholic church. Originally accommodating a growing congregation, the church later expanded to a larger structure to enhance its capacity. Throughout its existence, Saint Mary’s has played a role in several historical events, including serving as a chapel during the Civil War when the United States Naval Academy relocated to Newport.
The church has also hosted various noteworthy occasions, including the wedding of Colonel Jerome Napoleon Bonaparte, a grandnephew of Napoleon I. These moments have contributed to the church’s rich legacy, solidifying its place in both local and national history.
As the church and community reflected on the wedding of John F. Kennedy and Jacqueline Bouvier, they celebrated a couple whose lives were marked by service, elegance, and profound impact on America. The annual gathering not only pays tribute to their union but also highlights the enduring significance of Saint Mary’s Catholic Church as a sanctuary of solace and celebration throughout the years.