Modified - THY2 U2 L2 -Theological Understanding of Marriage & Christian Dimension of Marriage'24-'25

Theological Understanding of Marriage

Acknowledgment

• This lesson presentation is designed for the Course Developers of THY2 at the Institute of Religion, edited by Asst. Prof. Frederick del Rosario.

Opening Prayer

• The prayer acknowledges the role of St. Joseph as a guardian and guide in the lives of Christian families, asking for grace, mercy, and protection from evil.

Case Study: Bruce and Diana

• Bruce and Diana, a couple married for four years, are facing relational difficulties primarily due to differing views on intimacy. Bruce desires sexual intimacy, while Diana feels that her nurturing role as a mother absolves her of this obligation. This situation leads to frustration for Bruce, as he feels isolated in his needs, while Diana sees the need for intimacy as secondary to their family responsibilities. Their inability to understand one another creates a stalemate in their relationship.

Discussion Questions

• Several critical questions guide the discussion on the nature of sexual intimacy in marriage:

  • Can the couple forgo their conjugal act once they have children?

  • Is the intention of procreation the only basis for sexual union?

  • Are the unitive and procreative ends of marriage separable?

  • What are the repercussions of focusing solely on one end over the other?

• This lesson aims to explore these questions and clarify the goods and ends of marriage in the Christian context.

Historical Context on Sexuality and Marriage

• The Graeco-Roman context and certain philosophical movements contributed to negative views of sex in marriage:

  • Platonism sees the material body as inferior to the spiritual.

  • Gnosticism (including its Manichaean variant) posits matter as evil and spirit as good.

  • Stoicism advocates for emotional control, often denouncing passion.

Familial Perspective through G.K. Chesterton

• Chesterton argues that while sex is a fundamental instinct that leads to family formation, marriage encompasses a more profound reality that includes companionship, instruction, and worship.

• Marriage is depicted as a lifelong commitment transcending mere physicality.

Christian Perspective on Sexual Morality

• According to C.S. Lewis, Christianity uniquely elevates the body and views marriage as foundational for human happiness, making it the most celebrated relationship in Christian literature.

• It emphasizes that sex is not inherently bad, countering negative misconceptions.

Community Life and Marriage According to Wendell Berry

• Berry reflects on marriage as a divine institution that mirrors God's love and facilitates new life, emphasizing the dual nature of responsibility and joy within the marital union.

Theological Foundations

• St. Augustine's Doctrine: Identifies the goods of marriage as:

  • Proles: For procreation; creating and nurturing children as part of family unity.

  • Fides: Fidelity between spouses as a mutual commitment and support system.

  • Sacramentum: Marriage as a sacred covenant reflecting the bond of Christ and the Church.

The Nature of Marriage as a Sacrament

• Marriage is defined as a divine institution elevated by Christ and governed by sacred laws. The Church has authoritative oversight over marriage’s sacramental nature, emphasizing unity, indissolubility, and public acknowledgment.

Pivotal Teachings from Church Authorities

• Pope Pius XI: In "Casti Conubii", he asserts marriage's primary purpose as procreation while highlighting mutual love and fidelity.

• Pope Pius XII: Emphasizes the personal dimension of marriage, underscoring love and mutual engagement as central to the marital act.

• Vatican II: Affirms marriage as an intimate partnership established by God, promoting both conjugal love and responsibility towards children.

Marital Consent and its Importance

• Consent must be free, informed, and uncoerced, marking the beginning of a marital relationship. Any deficiency leads to invalidation.

• The concept of marriage as a covenant emphasizes trust and love over mere contractual obligations.

The Gifts and Challenges of Marriage

• Marriage is viewed not just as a personal commitment but as a sacred vocation. It calls spouses to experience divine love, grow spiritually, and fulfill parental duties effectively.

• Marital act as Renewal: The physical intimacy within marriage serves as a renewal of the couple's covenantal vows and commitment to each other.

Conclusion

• The lesson concludes with a contemplation of marriage as a divine calling, fostering individual and communal growth through shared responsibilities and love.

• A prayer is offered for families to embody the Gospel spirit, emphasizing the sacredness and inviolability of marriage in God's design.