The Sacred Union of Marriage and Family
Summary
- Marriage as a Sacred Sexual Union
- Exclusivity in Marriage
- Marriage and the Role of Extended Family
- The Role of Children in Marriage
- Unity in Raising Children
- Preparing for Unity Before Marriage
Marriage as a Sacred Sexual Union
Marriage is fundamentally a sexual union, and it always will be. This exclusivity encompasses not only the absence of cheating but also prohibits close, confidential friendships with those of the opposite sex outside the marriage. Today, due to the accessibility of pornography, there is a tendency to denigrate the marital relationship, consciously or subconsciously, by including others—whether through media or imagination. This union should be shared only by the couple and God, with no outside influence intruding.
Exclusivity in Marriage
Marriage is exclusive; while one may marry into a family, the family is not part of the marriage. Upon marriage, a new family is formed. Maintaining respect for one's family of origin is essential, but they do not have a controlling interest in the marriage. The couple should honor and maintain connections with both families, but the foundation of the new family is between the spouses, centered on their union and sanctification.
Marriage and the Role of Extended Family
In traditional circles, extended families sometimes cause division within marriages, whether intentionally or not. While it’s important to respect and honor family connections, it’s equally important to establish boundaries. Extended family should not influence the marriage’s core decisions. Maintaining the marriage’s sanctity and central focus on the couple is essential for unity and stability.
The Role of Children in Marriage
Children are a blessing, whether many or few, but they should not be viewed as the sole end of marriage. The modern world has pushed against procreation, and in response, traditional circles may overemphasize having children. Children are part of marriage’s ends, but they are not the end itself. It’s about both procreation and the proper education of children, enabling them to face the world. The union between spouses provides the stability necessary for children to grow with confidence.
Unity in Raising Children
The strength of a couple’s bond affects the children’s development. Children need to see a strong, loving relationship between their parents to feel secure. If a child senses instability, they might feel responsible for it, which can be psychologically damaging. Marriage must not become solely about the children; the focus should remain on the couple. The bond between parents instills self-confidence in children, enabling them to grow as confident Catholics.
Children naturally test boundaries and may manipulate cracks in the parental relationship. By maintaining a unified front, the parents prevent children from exploiting weaknesses. If children see their parents as a seamless unit, they gain the stability to face their own challenges and grow in faith and virtue.
Preparing for Unity Before Marriage
Before marriage, couples should have honest discussions about their philosophy on child-rearing, discipline, and family values. Establishing unity in these foundational aspects is crucial. These conversations lay the groundwork for a strong, stable marriage, benefiting both the couple and the children they may have.