The Case For Marriage

Dear Parishioners,

This week’s scripture readings (Gn 2:18-24; Mk 10:2-16) deal with Holy Matrimony which goes all the way back to creation. In the Book of Genesis, we hear how delighted Adam is when Eve is given to him in the Garden of Eden. “This one at last is bone of my bones and flesh of my flesh.” Even though Adam was in Eden with total control over the garden, something was missing—a partner that would complete him. And so Eve is created from a rib of Adam’s side to show that she is equal in dignity although different in other ways.

These days people in seeing so many failed marriages are more reluctant to enter into a life-long commitment and dedicating their lives to another person. But when you look at a couple married for a long time, you see how worthwhile it is. I have been reading a book entitled “The Case for Marriage.” The authors describe studies that show married people are happier, healthier, and better off financially. One study found that 40 percent of married men said they are very happy with life compared to 25 percent of unmarried men. Another study showed that marriage improves mental health. While still another study showed that married surgical patients were far less likely to die in the hospital than singles. As for finance, studies show husbands earn 10–40 percent more than unmarried men. In short, marriage is a win-win-win proposition. No wonder Adam was so pleased to be given a wife.

However, as those of you who are married know, a good marriage requires maturity, work, and sacrifice. But the benefits are surely worth the effort.

Finally, one reality not discussed in the book is the purpose of marriage. Actually there are two ends: procreation and mutual support to grow in holiness, so as to get to heaven. May God’s grace help our married couples in achieving those ends.

Fr. Carl