The past year was undoubtedly difficult for "19 Kids and Counting" stars Josh and Anna Duggar principally because of the two scandals that rocked their lives — Josh's child molestation case and his admission of unfaithfulness to his wife resulting from the exposure of his account in the Ashley Madison adultery website.
But after relying on God to restore their marriage, Josh and Anna have remained strong in their relationship. Just this Monday, Sept. 26, the two celebrated their eighth wedding anniversary, according to the Duggar Family Blog.
Incidentally, the date also marked the 13th month since Josh entered the faith-based rehab facility Reformers Unanimous.
His parents Jim Bob and Michelle couldn't be prouder of the achievements made by their eldest son since then. They are equally proud of their daughter-in-law Anna, who stayed true to her marriage vows despite the major trials she faced.
"Happy anniversary, Josh and Anna. We are so thankful for God's redemptive love in your lives," Jim Bob and Michelle greeted the couple in a statement.
Josh completed his treatment this March, returning to his family home in Arkansas right after. The Duggar family said in a statement that "he will continue professional counselling and focus on rebuilding relationships with his family." The Christian family added that they are looking to God for help and guidance, and that they have placed all of their trust in Him so the family will be able to recover from the scandals.
"We are forever grateful for the love and prayers offered by so many and hope you will continue to pray in the days ahead," the family said.
Meanwhile, Anna called 2015 "the most difficult year of my life," but she is nonetheless grateful for the ordeals she faced because she was able to draw nearer to God because of them. "I trust that God will continue to show His love and tenderness toward us and bring beauty from ashes — somehow — as only He can do," she said.
