WASHINGTON, D.C., JUNE 15, 2011 (Zenit.org).- The U.S. bishops gathered today in plenary assembly asked themselves what is to be done for marriage in this country, just as New York legislators were debating legalizing same-sex «marriage.»
With the issue at the forefront of the culture war, the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops’ continues its effort to help the faithful strengthen their marriages.
The bishops’ Subcommittee for the Promotion and Defense of Marriage has released the second of five videos for the promotion and protection of marriage as the union of one man and one woman.
«Made for Life» features actual married couples reflecting on topics related to the gift of children, the indispensable place of fathers and mothers, and sexual difference.
«Our culture is one that often forgets the sacred gift of the child, and in so doing it also fails to recognize the vital importance of a mother and a father together for the life and upbringing of that child,» said Bishop Salvatore Cordileone of Oakland, California, chairman of the committee. «In contemporary debates about the meaning of marriage, the rights and dignity of the child should be at the forefront. The video ‘Made for Life’ builds on the first video ‘Made for Each Other’ and invites a renewed appreciation for the child, for mothers and fathers, and for the bond between love and life in marriage — a bond only possible through the sexual difference of husband and wife.
«The video also addresses a real gap today in public awareness, namely, the close connection between a culture of life and a culture that promotes and protects marriage. The two cannot be separated.»
Bishop Cordileone announced the release of «Made for Life» during his report to the bishops today.
Made for Life is part of an educational initiative launched in June 2010.
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On the Net:
USCCB marriage materials: www.marriageuniqueforareason.org