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A Reflection for the Engaged
-From the Marriage Preparation and Resource Guide of the Catholic Archdiocese of Chicago
It is not unusual for young adults to critically evaluate the significance of the religious faith in which they were raised and to question its meaning. Some sociologists refer to this phenomenon as "losing one's religion and gaining a faith."
This is a process that is not completed in an instant but unfolds over time. It is understandable that you may not have completed this process at this point in your life. However, because you have asked to be married in the Catholic faith, it is important that you consider what role a strong active faith life will play in your life in the years to come.
The early years of marriage are unique and crucial because during these years a couple develops patterns and habits that will continue throughout their marriage. Since many human beings are creatures of habit and established patterns, in all probability, what you are doing now is exactly what you will be doing 20 years from now.
For this reason it is imperative that the patterns and habits you want to be present in your marriage 20 years from now are fostered in these early years of marriage.
If you want to have a strong faith relationship in your life and in your family, then you must begin to lay the foundation
now. This is the time to look ahead at what you want your relationship to be in the future, with God and with the Church.
Your relationship with the Lord is both personal and communal and implies an active relationship with a faith community. A faith community, such as your local parish, is important to you for many reasons.
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You will find it easier to live the values that are important to you when you worship with people who share the same values.
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You will discover a partnership with the parish faith community in raising your children. It takes a Christian village, a Christian faith community, to raise a child in faith. But before a parent can understand what the community can offer, they must first be a part of that community.
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Parents cannot give to their children what they do not possess. A parish faith community can assist parents to understand, clarify and deepen their faith.
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