Being Fully Present
The commitment to be there for each other, to encourage and support each other, and to be always faithful is the second attribute in the blueprint of love for building your marriage. The Bible tells us about God’s enduring commitment to his people, Israel, and his constant presence among them. Today God is personally present to us through the gift of the Holy Spirit in Confirmation, which gives us certain gifts to strengthen our life. In marriage husband and wife bind themselves to each other, and the Holy Spirit seals their promise. They commit to be always faithful to one another and to be attentive to each other’s needs, regardless of what happens. Be present to each other as Jesus is present to you!
Like the attitudes of welcome and acceptance, the commitment to be present is an attitude that needs to be practiced every day. It is expressed and deepened through the words and actions wives and husbands use to relate to each other day in and day out.
The Sacrament of Confirmation
Confirmation (USCCB)
Reflections on the Sacrament of Confirmation (Bishop Barron, Word on Fire)
On Confirmation (Peter Vaghi)
Commitment
What Makes Marriage Work: Commitment (For Your Marriage)
The Meaning of Marriage (Catholic News Agency)
Children of Divorce
Awareness for Separated and Divorced Catholics (Catholic Divorce Ministry)
The Effects of Divorce on Children (CatholicCulture.org)
Excessive Anger, Sadness, and Insecurity in the Children of Divorce (Catholic Education Resource Center)
On Helping Your Kids (The Catholic Divorce Survival Guide)
The Danger of Pornography
Addressing Porn in Marriage Prep (Integrity Restored)
Help for Men and Women Struggling with Pornography Use (For Your Marriage)
Porn Proofing Our Kids: Emotional Investment (Mama Needs Coffee, CNA)
Pornography’s Effect on Marriage and Hope of Recovery and Healing (USCCB)
Financial Tips for Newly Married Catholic Couples
Joined by Grace Budget Table (English)
Joined by Grace Budget Table (Spanish)
3 Alternatives to the Budget You Never Keep (Together for Life Online)
How to Talk about Money with Your Spouse (Together for Life Online)
Financial Questions and Answers for Engaged Couples (Together for Life Online)
Ten Financial Tips for Newly Married Catholic Couples (Together for Life Online)
Have You Talked about Debt with Your Future Spouse? (Together for Life Online)
What Newlyweds Don’t Talk about Before Marriage (Business News Daily)