A Pastoral Letter written to and for engaged couples,
helping them prepare for the Sacrament of faithful,
lifelong love.
About the Letter
In the pastoral letter, Bishop Kinney spells out
the Catholic Church's teachings on marriage, and invites engaged
couples to reflect on God's call for their future together. The
pastoral letter discusses the Church's understanding of sexuality
and human life, and suggests ideas for appropriately celebrating
their "big day."
"It is out of concern regarding the shift in our
society that I want to take this opportunity to speak to couples
preparing for marriage," said Bishop Kinney. "Today, we are witnessing
a pronounced deterioration of the family and value of marriage.
Our popular culture and media rarely depict marriage in a positive
light, let alone a sacred calling to a lifelong vocation.
A section entitled "From 'Me' to' We'" challenges
couples to reflect on the areas of communication, commitment, finances,
time management and prayer. The pastoral letter speaks directly
to the special concerns of premarital sex, cohabitation, infertility,
and ecumenical marriages. The end of the letter is devoted to married
couples, parents of the engaged, their relatives and friends, pastors
and parish staff.
"As engaged couples approach the Church for the sacrament
of marriage, I want them to understand the meaning of life and
love embodied in the family they will become - a real domestic
'church' which will contribute toward enriching the Church, the
community and the whole society," continued Bishop Kinney. "I want
to share my love and support for them as they begin their journey
together, and ask them to prayerfully reflect on these key points
during their time of discernment."
How to Get a Copy of the Letter
The text of the document can be viewed online
via this link.
The entire document is available through the Office
of Marriage & Family for two dollars plus shipping.
