Marriage
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The Sacrament of Marriage
A Covenant of Love Reflecting Christ and His Church
Marriage is a sacred covenant — not merely a contract — between a man and a woman, who freely give themselves to one another in lifelong love and fidelity. In this sacrament, husband and wife become “one flesh” (Genesis 2:24), united in body, heart, and soul. Their love is meant to mirror the total, faithful, and fruitful love of Christ for His Bride, the Church (Ephesians 5:25-32).
Through the grace of the Sacrament of Matrimony, spouses are strengthened to love each other as Christ loves — with self-giving generosity and enduring faithfulness. Their union is a visible sign of God’s invisible love: a living icon of the divine communion that calls all of humanity into relationship with Him.
Marriage is therefore a vocation, a calling to holiness through mutual love and service. It is a participation in God’s creative work, as the couple cooperates with Him in bringing forth new life, both physically and spiritually. The marital covenant draws its strength from the same love that binds Christ to His Church — a love that is total, permanent, and life-giving.
The Theology of the Body
St. John Paul II’s Theology of the Body offers profound insight into the meaning of human love and sexuality in God’s plan. It helps engaged and married couples understand how their bodies speak a “language of love” that reveals the mystery of God Himself — a love that is free, faithful, fruitful, and total.
For those preparing for marriage, exploring the Theology of the Body can deepen your understanding of this sacred vocation and help you live out God’s design for love more fully.
Recommended Resources:
Preparing for Marriage at St. Joseph Parish
If you are engaged and wish to be married at St. Joseph Parish, please see our "Weddings" page for information on the steps you need to take to prepare for the Sacrament of Marriage. Please contact the parish office at least six months before your desired wedding date.
Our clergy and marriage preparation team are here to walk with you as you prepare to enter this sacred covenant.
Together, we will explore the beauty of God’s plan for marriage and help you build a strong spiritual foundation for your life together.
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