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42. Matrimony as a Sacrament

1. A sacrament is a sensible sign, instituted by Christ,to signify and confer grace. Matrimony meets the requirements ofthis definition. Hence, it is truly a sacrament.

2. Matrimony is instituted for the begetting of childrenaccording to God's providence and law. It was established fromthe beginning, before the fall of man, as a holy institution ofnature. It was raised to supernatural rank by our Lord when he madeit a sacrament.

3. Like every sacrament, matrimony confers grace uponthose who receive it worthily. It also confers the specialsacramental grace which helps the spouses to be faithful in theperforming of all their duties.

4. The actual use of marital action is not an integralelement in the sacrament of matrimony.

"Does our conduct correspond with our Faith?"
The Cure D'Ars

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"He who wishes to be perfectly obeyed, should give but few orders."
St Philip Neri

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"If, devout soul, it is your will to please God and live a life of serenity in this world, unite yourself always and in all things to the divine will. Reflect that all the sins of your past wicked life happened because you wandered from the path of God's will. For the future, embrace God's good pleasure and say to him in every happening: "Yea, Father, for so it hath seemed good in thy sight." "
St Alphonsus de Liguori

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