Marriage

• Where is marriage established according to Catholics?

  In the Creation story in Genesis
• How does the Church view marriage?

  As uniting a couple and raising children
• What does marriage provide in society?

  Legal rights and responsibilities for couples
• What does the Bible teach about marriage?

  It is established by God, not just human
• What does St Paul say about marriage?

  It bears witness to Christ's love for the Church
• How should husbands love their wives according to Ephesians?

  As Jesus loved the Church
• What are the features of a Catholic marriage (sacrament)?

  • Loving relationship of love and faithfulness
  • Lifelong support and comfort
  • Exclusive commitment to one partner
  • Openness to having children
• What is marriage considered for Catholics?

  A sacrament called holy matrimony
• What do Catholics promise during the marriage ceremony?

  To commit to the marks of marriage
• What is the significance of the vows in Catholic marriage?

  They are the sacrament of marriage
• What is the difference between a covenant and a legal contract in marriage?

  A covenant cannot be ended, a contract can
• Who can enter into the sacrament of marriage according to the Catholic Church?

  Only a man and a woman
• What biblical reference supports the Catholic view of marriage?

  Genesis 2:24
• What book did Pope Francis write about marriage?

  Not Just Good, But Beautiful
• What does Pope Francis celebrate in his book about marriage?

  The benefits of marriage for society
• What does a legal marriage establish?

  Rights and obligations between the couple
• How do Christians view marriage ceremonies?

  As religious but not always sacramental
• What do Humanists campaign for regarding weddings?

  Recognition of Humanist weddings as legal
• What is the significance of civil marriages?

  They declare private love publicly
• When did same-sex couples gain the right to marry in England, Wales, and Scotland?

  Since 2014
• What was the status of same-sex couples before 2014?

  They were allowed civil partnerships only
• What is the Catholic Church's stance on same-sex marriages?

  It does not permit same-sex marriages
• What do some Christian Churches allow regarding same-sex marriages?

  They may grant permission if they choose
• What do some couples choose instead of marriage?

  Cohabitation or civil partnerships
• What is the legal status of cohabiting couples compared to married couples?

  They have fewer legal rights
• What is the fastest growing family type in the UK?

  Cohabiting couples
• What does the Catholic Church see cohabitation as?

  A temptation to have premarital sex
• What are two significant features of marriage for Catholics?

  1. Marriage is intended to be fruitful, open to children.
  2. Infertile couples are not excluded from the sacrament.
• What are arguments for and against the statement 'Marriage should always happen in a church'?

  For:

  • Reflects Catholic teachings on sacrament.
  • Provides a sacred environment for vows.

  
  

  Against:

  • Many view marriage as a legal contract.
  • Different Christian and non-religious perspectives exist.