Every couple has their own creation story, the story of how they met. In Genesis 2 we learn how the first couple, Adam and Eve, met. Adam had not found a suitable partner in any of the creatures created by God. God understood Adam’s plight and created a woman who was truly part of Adam’s being: she was bone of his bone and flesh of his flesh. From that day on, Adam had a partner to share life’s joys and sorrows.
My husband and I met at a Fourth of July beach party, and I persuaded him to lend me his bicycle. I proceeded to crash the bike and break the front wheel. Without his bicycle, he no longer had a way to get home from the party. Believe me, I’ve been hearing about our “creation story” ever since.
What is your creation story? How did you and your spouse become a couple? It’s important for us to remember our beginnings so we can reflect on how far we’ve come in living out our sacrament of marriage.
Since 1983 the second Sunday of February has been set aside as World Marriage Day. This day honors the faithfulness and joy of daily married life. This year Valentine’s Day happens to coincide with this worldwide celebration of marriage. What a perfect time to reflect on our “creation” story and our marital journey.
- Set aside some time to reminisce about how you met. Did someone introduce you? Do you still visit the location of your first meeting?
- Spend some time sharing your story with your family. Children enjoy knowing their parents’ history. You might consider writing down your “creation” story for your family to keep.
- Remember the time of your first meeting. Where were you on your faith journey? How has your marriage helped you grow in your faith? Share your spiritual growth with your family as well.
These simple exercises are easy ways to share your sacrament with your loved ones.
There are still two opportunities to attend a Marriage Celebration Mass and luncheon with Bishop Stika if you’d like to renew your marriage vows. Both Masses begin at 11 a.m., with a free luncheon immediately following.
- Saturday, Feb. 11, St. Jude Church, Chattanooga
- Saturday, March 3, St. Mary Church, Johnson City
To make reservations, contact Karen Byrne at kbyrne@dioknox.org or 865-862-5739.
You can read more about World Marriage Day at wmd.wwme.org/purpose-history.html.
Mrs. Christiana is coordinator of the diocesan Marriage Preparation and Enrichment Office.
Tags: Marriage enrichment
