Theology and Spirituality of Marriage
Included with the online Pre-Cana, Living Our Faith in Love
A marriage within the Catholic Church, and within the Catholic faith more broadly, includes a deeper meaning to marriage itself. The covenant formed on the wedding day is not merely between two human beings. The greater significance of observing this holy union is the bond that is formed between man, woman, and God.
But what happens after the thrill and excitement of that day begins to wear off?
This four-part series helps couples explore what it means to uphold the commitment of a Catholic marriage — as their unified life begins — by developing a “Family Spirituality.” Presented in a profound, yet approachable way, the teachings within the video segments help to spark meaningful discussion between the bride and groom to be. This series also speaks to individuals who may not be Catholic, allowing the opportunity for those who are Catholic to share the beauty of their faith with their future husband or wife.
As life, together, unfolds with all of its ups and downs, couples are encouraged by this topic to remember and reflect upon Christ, the solid foundation in which their marriage will be rooted and grounded in — ready to weather storms that may come.
For couples planning to be married within the Catholic Church, it is important to understand and reflect upon the deeper meaning of marriage. They are not just preparing for an unforgettable wedding day; they are entering into a relationship with their partner and with God. In this easy-to-follow video presentation, led by Claudio Mora, couples will gain his perspective on the following topics:
- Marriage as a Sacrament
- Marriage as a Vocation
- Marriage as a Covenant
Presented By:
In this segment, Claudio Mora, Director of Catholic Programs, delivers the good news of marriage that is best lived — rooted and grounded in the foundations of Catholic faith — in a beautifully profound and approachable way.
Guiding Principles and Areas of Discussion:
Part 1: God’s Plan
- God has a plan for humanity, human sexuality, and marriage.
- Hopefully, both individuals have already developed their personal relationship with God — now it is time to begin developing the family spirituality.
- When we love another human being, we are integrating the capacity that God gave us to love as men and women.
Part 2: Marriage as a Sacrament
- Marriage in the Catholic Church is a sacrament (a symbol that makes Christ present in our midst).
- By living a sacramental life, especially within marriage, we connect to God through creation.
- Through marriage, a man and a woman give themselves to one another — to serve each other, to serve the community, and also to serve God.
Part 3: Marriage as a Vocation
- Marriage in the Catholic Church is a a vocation (a divine calling).
- A vocation points us toward serving God.
- Cultivating a spirituality of marriage is important for a healthy and everlasting marriage.
- Praying together and for each other helps to develop the spirituality of marriage.
Part 4: Marriage as a Covenant
- Marriage in the Catholic Church is a covenant (an agreement between God and their marriage).
- The permanent and exclusive union between husband and wife mirrors the mutual commitment between God and his people.
- God never breaks his promises, God never breaks his covenant. Therefore, in marriage, each individual continually works toward never breaking promises, and never breaking the covenant.