The purpose of this book, in the Cardinal's words, "is not simply to emphasize the importance of appropriate preparation for marriage, or to discuss the nature of such preparation-although I do attempt to do this. But I want to go deeper, most particularly by way of exploring the likeness of marriage and priesthood, together with the radical reason for marriage itself." And so this is not a marriage manual, nor a book of strict guidelines and instructions. Thoroughly pastoral, and practical, in tone, sprinkled with real-life anecdotes, this book will encourage both the married and the unmarried to look at the spiritual, the sacramental, and indeed, the supernatural, dimensions of marriage as God seems to have intended it to be. In more than two dozen chapter-reflections, O'Connor covers such themes as: self-sacrifice, indissolubility, prayer life, marital relations, channels of grace, the frustration-aggression phenomenon, money, divorce and remarriage, being loved for oneself, fidelity, and parenting.
In contrast to Pope John Paul II's "theology of body", Cardinal O'connor presents a much simpler, yet as elegant collection of pastoral essays on the true meaning and practices of love and marriage. The books aims at the restoration of Divine Mystery in the avenue of life called "Covenant", which most of our contemporary society has ceased to believe in. A perfect blend of inspired Wisdom and everyday experiences- this is a must read for Christian of all vocations.
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