The Spirituality of Marriage and Family

Abstract

Family is a treasure, which must be always protected and defended. It is a God-given place to members to grow in love, sanctity and human virtues and find self-fulfilment, where one ensures one’s salvation. Chavara calls for a family-centred spirituality, of which marital and family spirituality is part. Marital spirituality is the spirituality of the bond, in which divine love dwells. Atmanuthapam is strewn with expressions of mothering experiences as motherhood involves a special communion with the mystery of life, as it develops in the woman’s womb. Sacredness of human sexuality is based on the fact that God himself created sexuality, which is a marvellous gift to his creatures. Hence, the celebration of love in conjugal love is the greatest form of friendship. Feminine style of holiness for the church would stem from the genius of woman and mother’s role in upbringing children in mutual respect and equality in the family. The reflection comes to a conclusion with a thought on the challenges to families.