The vocation to married life is a profound and beautiful gift that many are called to.
A willingness to accept children in this relationship and to help them to learn about the faith as they grow and develop is an important part of this commitment. Through this vocation, the home and family become a place where they can grow in love for one another, alongside their growth in love and understanding of God.
Like all vocations, it requires time, commitment, patience, and understanding. It also requires prayer - an easy aspect to overlook, but a vital one for the Christian vocation of marriage. The Christian view of marriage is that it is a reflection of the relationship Christ has with the Church, so having a place for God in that marriage to guide, strengthen, and support the couple as they grow in love of each other, their children, and Him is a key foundation stone.
We aim to encourage married couples, to support those experiencing difficulties in their relationships, and to nurture family life.
There are many books about marriage preparation and married life. However, when considering what the vocation of marriage will mean in your life, it's crucial that thought be given to the central role that God plays in it. Books that may help with that are:
‘Your Love Story: A Guide to Marriage and Engagement’, by Deacon William Turrentine
‘Joined by Grace: A Catholic Prayer Book for Engaged and Newly Married Couples’ by John and Teri Bosio
‘Three to Get Married’, by Archbishop Fulton Sheen
‘31 Prayers for my Future Wife: Preparing my Heart for Marriage by Praying for Her’, by Aaron Smith
‘31 Prayers for my Future Husband: Preparing my Heart for Marriage by Praying for Him’, by Jennifer Smith