The Catholic Church teaches that marriage is a sacred union between one man and one woman, established by God from the beginning of creation. The Church views marriage as a lifelong commitment, a covenant between spouses that mirrors the love and fidelity of Christ for his Church. In this way, marriage is a sign of the loving and creative presence of God in the world.
The family, in turn, is the basic unit of society and the domestic church, where faith is passed on from one generation to the next. The Church recognizes the important role of parents in the education and formation of their children, and calls on them to be the primary educators of their children in matters of faith and morals. The Church also upholds the dignity of every human person, from conception to natural death, and supports policies and practices that promote the flourishing of the family as the foundation of a just and peaceful society.
- Marriage is a sacred union between one man and one woman, established by God from the beginning of creation.
- Marriage is a lifelong commitment and a sign of the loving and creative presence of God in the world.
- The family is the basic unit of society and the domestic church, where faith is passed on from one generation to the next.
- Parents are the primary educators of their children in matters of faith and morals.
- All individuals, regardless of their sexual orientation or marital status, are called to live chaste and virtuous lives.