THY2 Prelims

Vocation

God's calling for each person, derived from the Latin 'vocare' meaning 'to call'.

Discernment

A process of making thoughtful decisions through prayer, reflection, and God's guidance.

Universal Call to Holiness

The belief that everyone is called to be holy, rooted in baptism, sharing in Christ’s priestly, prophetic, and kingly roles.

Family

The first and vital cell of society; foundational in shaping individuals for social life.

Positive aspects of modern family life

Increased awareness of personal freedom & authenticity, greater respect for women's dignity, better education & responsible procreation, strengthened family relationships.

Negative aspects of modern family life

Excessive independence, decline in moral values, rising divorce rates, abortion, and contraceptive mentality.

Functions of the family

1. Regulation of sexuality, 2. Responsible procreation, 3. Socialization, 4. Economic cooperation.

Keys to a happy marriage

Mutual respect, fidelity, love for children, economic stability, and protecting marriage & family values.

Ecclesia Domestica

The term used by the Second Vatican Council to describe the family as the Domestic Church.

Threefold missions of the family in Christ

1. Prophetic mission (evangelization), 2. Priestly mission (participation in prayers & sacraments), 3. Kingly mission (witnessing Christ’s love).

Duties of family members

Parents are the first educators; children must obey and respect their parents.

Main purposes of marriage

Unity, procreation, stewardship of creation, and serving as a sacrament reflecting Christ’s love for the Church.

Challenges to marriage in the Bible

Old Testament sin led to suffering and toil; New Testament Jesus rejected divorce except in cases of unfaithfulness.

Divorce teachings in the Bible

Old Testament allowed divorce under Mosaic Law; New Testament Jesus prohibited it except for unfaithfulness.

Natural Marriage

Marriage is a human institution based on reason

Natural Marriage

Marriage that is for procreation & companionship

Natural Marriage

Marriage that can be broken under specific conditions

Natural Marriage

Marriage that is recognized for its societal benefits

Sacramental Marriage

Marriage that is a sacred bond giving divine grace.

Sacramental Marriage

Marriage that is for the union of Christ & the Church.

Sacramental Marriage

Marriage that is administered and blessed by the Church.

Sacramental Marriage

Marriage that is indissoluble once valid.

Role of the family

To nurture the growth of individuals and provide emotional support.

Marriage as a covenant

A sacred agreement between spouses, reflecting God's commitment to His people.

Importance of communication in family

Effective communication fosters understanding and builds strong family bonds.

Faith in family life

Faith serves as a foundation for values, encouraging families to grow spiritually together.

Impact of technology on family

Technology can connect families but may also lead to disconnection and less face-to-face interaction.

Crisis in family life

Challenges such as financial strain or health issues that can threaten family stability.

Religious education in families

Teaching children about faith and morals, typically led by parents.

Family traditions

Customs and practices passed down through generations, fostering identity and unity.

Marriage as a Covenant in the Old Testament

Created by God (Gen 1:28, 2:18-24) and rooted in God’s covenant with humanity.

Marriage as a Covenant in the New Testament

Affirmed by Jesus (Mt 19:6) and reflects the relationship between Christ and the Church (Eph 5:25-32).

Purpose of Marriage in the Bible

Unity, procreation, stewardship, and a lifelong commitment of love and sacrifice.

Challenges to Marriage in the Old Testament

Sin disrupts harmony (Gen 3:16-19) and polygamy was tolerated.

Jesus' View on Divorce

Divorce was rejected, allowing it only in cases of unfaithfulness (Mt 19:9).

God’s Relationship to Marriage

Reflects God's unbreakable bond with His people; God’s love for Israel parallels a faithful marriage (Hos 1-3).

Key Figures in Marriage Examples

Adam & Eve, Abraham & Sarah, Ruth & Boaz in the Old Testament; Jesus, Mary & Joseph, and St. Paul in the New Testament.

Moral Teachings of Marriage

Emphasizes exclusivity and indissolubility, defining marriage as a covenant, not just a contract.

God’s Covenants with Key Figures

Covenants with Noah, Abraham, and Moses underpin the significance of marriage.