We Are Family: Baptism, Marriage, and the Call to Something More

Not long ago, I had the privilege of baptizing four beautiful children, pouring water over their tiny heads, and speaking the words that welcomed them into the family of God:

“I baptize you in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.”

It was a sacred moment. The parents beamed with joy, their hearts full of hope for their children’s future. They had taken an important step—choosing baptism, choosing faith, choosing to root their family in God’s love. Whatever led them to that decision—whether deep religious conviction, family tradition, cultural heritage, or a quiet longing to give their child something more extraordinary—I thank God for it. It was a beautiful, commendable choice that should never be overlooked. In that moment, they embraced something sacred: the grace of baptism, the welcome of the Church, and the promise of a faith-filled foundation for their child’s life.

But baptism is just the beginning. It is the first step in the Christian journey but is not meant to be the last. It opens the door to a life of grace, and the Church offers us other sacraments to sustain and strengthen us along the way. Marriage is one of the most important of these, especially for families.

If you have chosen baptism for your child but have not yet received the sacrament of marriage, I invite you to consider something beautiful. You have already made a choice to bring your child into the faith, to plant the seeds of a life rooted in Christ. Why not take the next step and embrace the sacrament that strengthens and blesses the love you share?

Baptism: A Commitment to Faith and Family

When parents bring their child to the Church for baptism, they make a sacred commitment. The priest or deacon asks:

“In asking for Baptism for [your child], you are undertaking the responsibility of raising [them] in the faith, so that, keeping God’s commandments, [they] may love the Lord and [their] neighbor, as Christ has taught us. Do you understand this responsibility?”

And the parents respond: “We do.”

This is not just a ritual; it is a promise. Parents who baptize their children commit to raising them in the faith—not just with words, but by example. Children learn about God through what their parents say and how they love, forgive, and remain faithful in their relationships.

That is why marriage is so important. It is a living witness of the love that baptism calls us to nurture.

Marriage: A Covenant of Love and Grace

Some couples wonder: Why does marriage matter? We love each other. We live together. We are raising our children in the faith. Isn’t that enough?

Love is beautiful, but the sacrament of marriage takes love beyond emotion. Marriage is more than a human arrangement—it is a covenant, a sacred bond that reflects God’s love for us.

When a couple exchanges vows in the Church, they invite God into their relationship. It becomes more than a promise between two people—a sacrament filled with grace that strengthens their love through every joy and trial.

And marriage is not just for the couple. It is for their children, too.

The Eucharist and Christ’s Love: The Heart of Every Marriage

At the center of our faith is the Eucharist—the greatest sign of Christ’s love. In the Eucharist, Jesus gives himself completely, holding nothing back, offering his body and blood for our salvation. This sacrificial love is the same love that Christian marriage is called to reflect.

“Husbands, love your wives, as Christ loved the Church and gave himself up for her.” (Ephesians 5:25)

Marriage, like the Eucharist, is about self-gift. It is about giving, sacrificing, and loving as Christ loves—faithfully, thoroughly, and forever. Just as the Eucharist strengthens us to live our faith, marriage strengthens spouses to love as Christ loves: patiently, generously, and without reservation.

A marriage rooted in Christ and nourished by the Eucharist becomes a source of grace for the couple, their children, and all who witness their love. If we want our children to understand the power of God’s love, shouldn’t they see it lived out in their parents’ relationship?

Why Marriage Still Matters

Choosing baptism for your child means choosing a life of faith for them. But faith is not only taught—it is lived. A sacramental marriage gives children a visible, lasting example of faithful, committed, and grace-rooted love.

Some may ask, Why does marriage matter when so many end in divorce? It’s true that marriage, like anything worthwhile, has challenges. A wedding is not a guarantee of a perfect life together. But marriage is not about perfection—it is about commitment. It is about choosing to love, even in difficulty, and allowing God’s grace to sustain that love.

A sacramental marriage is not just a human contract but a covenant. When both spouses rely on God’s grace, their love becomes more resilient and able to withstand the trials of life.

Children thrive when they see the love they choose daily and endure, even in hardship. A strong, sacramental marriage teaches them that love is not just a feeling but a choice—to sacrifice, trust, and remain faithful. It is a witness to the deeper truth that love, like faith, is something we nurture and strengthen over time.

Overcoming Fears and Obstacles

For some couples, getting married in the Church feels overwhelming. Some worry about the cost. Others fear they are not “religious enough.” Some may even have past situations—previous marriages, complicated family dynamics—that make them hesitant.

If any of these concerns sound familiar, know that the Church is here to help, not to complicate things.

First, a wedding does not have to be extravagant. The sacrament of marriage is not about fancy receptions or expensive decorations—it’s about two people standing before God and committing their lives to each other. A small, simple ceremony in the Church is just as sacred as the grandest wedding.

Second, no one has to be “perfect” to receive this sacrament. God meets us where we are. If you are unsure where your faith stands, marriage can be a step toward growing in it. Grace is real, and when you invite God into your relationship, he will work in ways you never expected.

Finally, if there are past obstacles—such as a previous marriage—know that the Church has processes to help. Speak to a priest or deacon. You may be surprised at how many options are available to help you move forward.

An Invitation to Say Yes

You have already accepted baptism and invited God into your family. Can you take the next step?

Marriage is a gift—not just for you as a couple but for your children, family, and future. It is a source of grace that strengthens love and deepens faith. It provides the foundation for a family to grow together in holiness.

If you are open to considering marriage in the Church, I encourage you to take the first step: Talk to your parish priest or deacon, ask questions, and explore what is possible. You may find that the path is easier than you thought and that the blessings are far greater than you imagined.

May God bless your family, guide your love, and lead you always in his grace.

Heavenly Father, we thank you for the gift of love and family. Bless the couples who have embraced the gift of baptism for their children. Give them the courage to take the next step in faith, to trust in your grace, and to build their family upon the foundation of your love. Lead them to the sacrament of marriage, that their love may reflect your eternal covenant. Amen.