The vocation of marriage

Preface
While not all people are called to the vocation of marriage, one of the many ways that humans may
find happiness is through marriage. Students will demonstrate an understanding of the meaning of
marriage as a vocation (a calling) and a sacrament (an outward sign of an inward grace) and will
apply their understanding to the marriage preparation process.
Task
This assignment will compose of two parts (Part A and B). Part A is will be a reflection that is to be put
in MLA format. The length of this will be 1.5-2 pages. Part B will be based on Glossary Terms that
were copied by you in class, Canon vs Civil Law, Elements of Marriage, the stages of marriage. The
content for Part B is based on the notes, seatwork question, homework questions, and textbook
pages for this unit! This will be completed in class.
Part A: Marriage Reflection
Write a reflection which provides detailed responses to the items below. Each answer should be a
paragraph in length and should be thorough and reflective. Your answers should demonstrate an
understanding of the importance, sacramentality, and vocation of marriage as a holy and indivisible
union. There are 10 topics, but you are only to pick 5 and each topic will be typed in paragraph form

1. Describe your ideal wedding ceremony and reception. Explain your style choices.
2. What is your ideal number of children and why? Explain how you would like to raise your offspring
   (e.g., ethics, sports, musical activities, etc.).
3. Identify how much time should be spent with your partner in relation to time spent with other
   family members and friends. Explain your response. Discuss the many activities you would like to
   enjoy with your partner.
4. Identify your views on punctuality and explain the importance to you of being on time for deadlines,
   events, meetings, dates, etc.
5. Identify your views on tidiness/organization in the home and explain its importance to you.
6. Identify your views on doing and dividing household chores (e.g., doing laundry, vacuuming, doing
   dishes, taking out the garbage, etc.). Explain your response.
7. Identify and explain your views on the handling of money in your marriage (e.g. individual and
   shared bank accounts, bill payments, savings, etc.).
8. What are your views on how to deal with short-term disagreements (e.g., whether or not to go to a
   dinner party) and long-term disagreements (e.g., your partner’s choice of career) in a marriage?
   What various methods of finding solutions are you willing to explore, and which are you not willing
   to undertake?
9. Explain the importance of practicing your religious faith (or engaging in spiritual activities, such as
   taking time for meditation and self-improvement). Discuss and explain your expectations of your
   spouse’s and children’s participation in religious or spiritual activities.
10. Clearly and conclusively explain your views on the purpose of marriage as a vocation and
    sacrament.

Sample Solution