marriage and the family Flashcards
What are Christian teachings about marriage?
- Marriage is a sacrament: Vows promising faithfulness are made which shows that marriage is binding and sacred
- Marriage is a gift from God, was intended for human beings when they were created
- Marriage is seen to provide security and a stable environment for children to be raised as Christians
- not everyone needs to be married
What is the Christian purpose of marriage
- to provide companionship, friendship and support between husband and wife
- to enjoy sexual relationship within marriage and have children and raise a family
- to make a lifelong commitment to another person, establishing a permanent and stable relationship
Some people argue that marriage doesn’t guarantee happiness.Christians disagree and believe that it is important for society.why?
- regulates sexual behaviour
- provides a permanent and stable environment to have and bring up children according to Christian principles
- teaching people to be less self-centred and selfish because they have made a commitment to God and their spouse to live their married life in the way God wants
What is the Humanist attitude towards marriage?
- accept marriage as a secular tradition
- marking important events like a wedding with a personalised ceremony
- do not believe in marriage as a religious institution
- do not believe in marriage as something established by God
What is cohabitation
two people living together and have a sexual relationship but are not married
Roman Catholic Church teachings about cohabitation
- sex before marriage is a sin
- couples who live together are not allowed to take part in communion, divorce or remarry
What do Protestant churches accept about cohabitation?
- attitudes to marriage have changed
- couples live together without being married, although they hope these couples will eventually get married in the church
What is the importance of families today?
- family strengthens society, providing structure and support
- it is where people feel safest, unites people and provides a support network
How does the Parish help families?
- encouraging children to attend sunday school
- supporting couples who are expecting children e.g organising clases and socil events
- organising family events and family worship services- running parental support classes
- providing counselling support
How does the local parish support families during worship?
- running slightly shorter services
- getting children involved in worship
- providing toys for children to play in church
How does the local parish help Christians through counseling?
- talk to their local priest or another member of the pastoral team
- some parishes offer counselling services such as the Marriage Care or the Catholic child welfare council
- they try to integrate psychology with principles and values of the Christian faith
What does the parish church provide for adults and parents
- social events
- might organize study and prayer groups to help adults learn more about their faith
- some parishes might run courses or non-Christians to learn about the Christian faith e.g. alpha course
