POLAND – The Rev. Laurence and Mary Jordan celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary on Aug. 3, at a fiesta, hosted by Gary and Jeanne Manley at their home in Poland.

Mr. Jordan served in the U.S. Army during World War II and was badly wounded in Europe shortly before the war ended. After marrying his sweetheart, Mary Groves, they began raising a family and together dedicated their lives to serving God.

The Jordans were Baptist missionaries in northeast Brazil for more than two decades and the Rev. Jordan has pastored several churches in Maine. Both are active members of the East Auburn Baptist Church, where, at the age of 82, the Rev. Jordan still serves as a church elder.

All five of the Jordan children, Jude, Jeanne, Mark, John and Peter, gathered from their far-flung homes to join in joyful celebration. Flocks of grandchildren and great-grandchildren added their exuberant play and laughter to the festivities as they rambled through tents and umbrella-covered tables all decorated in bright fiesta colors. Hanging votive lanterns and tropical flowers added warmth and beauty to the scene.

Everyone present paid tribute to the long-lasting love and selfless service that has been a trademark of their lives and relationships for all of these years.