Bulletin #106 We live in a world full of challenges and difficulties. There are many instances in our lives that lead us away from the teachings of Christ, and especially in the lives of married couples. Lust, greed, misunderstandings and other temptations lead some couples apart and away from the sanctity of marriage. Marriage is a sacrament in the Armenian Church, which encompasses the fulfilment of the New Testament, where the bride and groom are joined together; the bride being the Church (faithful) and the groom being Jesus Himself.
Therefore, keeping our marriages holy involves a deep commitment to nurturing the spiritual and moral dimensions of the marital relationship. We must never forget that marriage is holy and it needs nurturing to keep it holy and pure. There are many things that a couple can do to maintain their spiritual bond. For example, keeping the commitment to God and each other, which centers around a shared faith in God. This can be done by praying together, attending Divine Liturgy and sometimes seeking spiritual guidance as a couple.
One key success in a holy marriage often involves putting the needs of the spouse above one’s own and making sacrifices for the sake of the relationship. Sacrifices include forgiveness, which allows for healing and growth, helping couples overcome conflicts and mistakes. Practicing forgiveness, both emotional and spiritual, fosters a culture of grace and understanding, which is built through honesty, transparency, being open, honest, and respectful. Listening actively and empathetically to each other’s concerns, dreams, and fears fosters intimacy and mutual respect. This mutual respect comes from treating each other with dignity and valuing each other’s opinions, honoring boundaries, and recognizing the inherent worth of one’s spouse.
Therefore, a holy marriage is dynamic and ever-evolving. Committing to personal and mutual growth, whether through spiritual practices, counseling, or self-reflection, helps the relationship flourish. And by integrating these principles into the marriage, couples can strive to keep their relationship holy, fostering a deep, spiritually enriched, and enduring union.
Rev. Fr. Movses Shannakian