Engaged couples planning to be married at St. Mark should make contact with one of the priests  of the parish at least six months before they plan to marry, but should know that many couples do so at least a year prior to their preferred date. 

Definite plans for a wedding date should not be decided until such contact has been made and the couples’ readiness for a sacramental marriage has been determined.

Preparation for marriage involves the couple completing the FOCCUS pre-marital inventory process, participating in any one of several Marriage Preparation Programs, planning the wedding ceremony with the presiding priest.










 

 

 

 

 

TIPS AND ADVICE

Daily Marriage Tips

Click on For Your Marriage  link to the right for a variety of ways to make your marriage stronger.

Daily Marriage Tip For February 5, 2018:

(Reader’s Tip) When you and your spouse have an argument, remember that the goal is not to “win.” The two of you are on the same team, fighting for your marriage, not one another.

Daily Marriage Tip For February 4, 2018:

“Rising very early before dawn, he left and went off to a deserted place, where he prayed.” (Mk 1:35) Where and when is the best time for you to pray? In your room? In a chapel? Outside? In the morning? Before bed? Discuss with your spouse and encourage each other to pray daily.

Daily Marriage Tip For February 3, 2018:

“When I was a child, I spoke like a child, I thought like a child…when I became an adult, I put an end to childish ways.” (1 Cor 13:11) Reminisce about your respective childhoods. Name one childhood trait that serves you well and one childish trait that stresses your marriage.

Daily Marriage Tip For February 2, 2018:

Every person experiences a time when they understand the prophesy of Simeon to Mary, “And a sword will pierce your own soul also.” (Luke 2:34) Do you know someone who needs consoling? Are you that person today?

Daily Marriage Tip For February 1, 2018:

Humor can lighten a stressful situation in life. Look for an opportunity today to lighten your beloved’s life with a touch of humor.

Daily Marriage Tip For January 31, 2018:

St. John Bosco is the patron saint of young people. If you are raising adolescents and teens, ask this kindly saint for wisdom…and a healthy sense of humor!

Daily Marriage Tip For January 30, 2018:

Perhaps your children are grown and it’s just the two of you again. Has your attention to each other grown stale or routine? Take up a new hobby, sport, or volunteer effort together.

Daily Marriage Tip For January 29, 2018:

“Love is a decision” is a maxim from the Marriage Encounter (ME) movement. As wonderful as marriage can be, it’s not always lived on an emotional high. Some days, we must just decide to love. The feelings will eventually follow.

Daily Marriage Tip For January 28, 2018:

“I should like you to be free from anxieties.” (1 Cor 7:32) Daily married life includes its share of anxieties: bills, schedules, personality conflicts, chores. Pray and talk together about the best way to handle these forms of anxiety.

Daily Marriage Tip For January 27, 2018:

Cook a special dinner together, even if it’s an ordinary night. Recall a special meal you shared during your courtship.

Daily Marriage Tip For January 26, 2018:

The internet and social media can enrich our lives, but they can also threaten your marriage. It’s not only pornography or finding old flames on Facebook, but also the time taken from interaction with your beloved. Agree on mutual limits to screen time.

Daily Marriage Tip For January 25, 2018:

“If one part [of the body] is honored, all the parts share its joy.” (1 Corinthians 12:26) What about your beloved’s physical appearance do you find especially attractive? Share that with him or her.

Daily Marriage Tip For January 24, 2018:

St. Francis de Sales’ spiritual classic, “Introduction to the Devout Life,” was written to encourage men and women to live holy lives in the midst of their daily occupations. Remember: you are called to holiness!

Daily Marriage Tip For January 23, 2018:

(Reader Tip) Every anniversary we write love letters to each other and take a “couple” picture. Put them together in a binder to treasure for years to come.

Daily Marriage Tip For January 22, 2018:

Today on the anniversary of Roe v. Wade, we remember the lives lost to abortion. The family is the “sanctuary of life.” Pray with your family for an end to abortion and for those grieving a child lost to abortion.

Daily Marriage Tip For January 21, 2018:

“Jesus said to them, ‘Come after me, and I will make you fishers of men.’” (Mk 1:17) Christ is continually calling us to follow him. To what is He calling you and your spouse right now?

Daily Marriage Tip For January 20, 2018:

(Reader’s Tip) Every night we ask each other forgiveness for the things we did wrong or if we’ve offended each other.

Daily Marriage Tip For January 19, 2018:

(Reader Tip) I try once a day to write my wife a text or a note to tell her I love her. She does the same for me.

Daily Marriage Tip For January 18, 2018:

“There are different spiritual gifts but the same Spirit.” (1 Cor. 12) Which gift does your beloved have in a special way: wisdom, faith, the ability to heal, industriousness, intuition, decision making skills, communication? Affirm him or her.

Daily Marriage Tip For January 17, 2018:

After you are blessed with a child (or children), you may think you don’t have time or money for a regular date night. Do it anyway. Think of it as an investment in your marriage.

Daily Marriage Tip For January 16, 2018:

The early years of marriage require adjustments and compromises. “My way is the right way” will only lock you into fights. Make sure it’s not always you or your spouse yielding to the will of the other.

Daily Marriage Tip For January 15, 2018:

Couples separated by distance have blessings and challenges. Absence can make the heart grow fonder, but it can also cause loneliness and temptations. Plan ways to keep close even when you’re far away.

Daily Marriage Tip For January 14, 2018:

“How do you know me?” (John 1:48) While learning about the other person is generally associated with the dating period, continuing to ask and learn about your spouse is an essential part of marriage. Ask questions. Tell stories. Keep learning about your beloved.

Daily Marriage Tip For January 13, 2018:

Are you in the post-holiday doldrums? Go out of your way to do something nice for your spouse or for a person in need. Love chases away gloom!

Daily Marriage Tip For January 12, 2018:

Are you a talker while your beloved is quieter – or vice-versa? Are you happy with the balance you have in conversation? If yes, continue to cultivate good communication. If not, talk about it – but make sure the quieter one starts.

Daily Marriage Tip For January 11, 2018:

(Reader Tip) Praying together as a couple and a family has carried us through some tough years. We always try to attend Mass together.

Daily Marriage Tip For January 10, 2018:

(Reader Tip) Compromise, saying “yes,” and the occasional “you look beautiful” have made the last 26 years together a walk in the park.

Daily Marriage Tip For January 9, 2018:

Yesterday we celebrated the Baptism of the Lord. Do you know the date of your baptism, and that of your children? Consider celebrating those dates and pray today for further graces of Baptism in your lives.

Daily Marriage Tip For January 8, 2018:

“And a voice came from the heavens, “You are my beloved Son; with you I am well pleased.” (Mark 1:11) Let your spouse know when you are proud of them and why. It is important to show that you recognize what they are doing for you, your family, and others. They will appreciate your recognition […]

Daily Marriage Tip For January 7, 2018:

“Then they opened their treasures and offered him gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh.” (Mt 2:11) Do you and your family support the Church or any charities financially? If you are not in a position to donate money, offer gifts to the Lord through your service to others.

Daily Marriage Tip For January 6, 2018:

“Behold, Magi from the east arrived in Jerusalem.” (Mt 2:2). The wise still seek Jesus. What gifts of wisdom do you possess? A lesson learned from your childhood? A proverb that steers your life? A virtue you’ve cultivated?

Daily Marriage Tip For January 5, 2018:

Do you have a regular date night? It’s one of the keys to a satisfying marriage. It doesn’t have to involve money or going out but it should be a time set aside for meaningful conversation (not about money or the kids) and fun.

Daily Marriage Tip For January 4, 2018:

Now that the busyness of Christmas is starting to die down, why not start the new year right by planning a regular weekly family night? Be creative about spending some quality time together for wholesome bonding.  

Daily Marriage Tip For January 3, 2018:

“On the 10th Day of Christmas my true love gave to me – 10 Lords-a-Leaping.” Leap to each other’s needs today. Try to find a new way to serve your spouse.

Daily Marriage Tip For January 2, 2018:

“On the 9th Day of Christmas my true love gave to me – 9 Ladies Dancing.” When’s the last time you and your spouse have danced impromptu in the living room? Try it today – and see if it doesn’t make you smile!

Daily Marriage Tip For January 1, 2018:

“And Mary kept all these things, reflecting on them in her heart.” (Lk 2:19) It’s a new year – a chance to start over. What’s one change you’d like to make for the better? Tell your spouse. He/she can keep you honest and accountable.

Daily Marriage Tip For December 31, 2017:

Today we celebrate the Holy Family: Joseph, Mary, and Jesus. They are powerful intercessors for marriages and families! Pray to them today, and place an image of the Holy Family in your home.

Daily Marriage Tip For December 30, 2017:

As this year comes to an end, reminisce over the highlights from 2017 with your family. What events were the most joyful, sad, blessed, or difficult? How do you want to grow as a family in 2018?

Daily Marriage Tip For December 29, 2017:

As the close of the year draws nigh, is there anything you need to ask your family, especially your spouse, to forgive you for? Are there any relatives you need to forgive?

Daily Marriage Tip For December 28, 2017:

In this time of celebration, togetherness, and joy, we remember the feast of the Holy Innocents, those children who died under the wrath of King Herod. Say a prayer today for all parents who are grieving the loss of a child.

Daily Marriage Tip For December 27, 2017:

The Christmas season can be a difficult time for those who have lost loved ones, feel alone, have no children, etc. Can you reach out today to someone and share the joy of Christmas with them?

Daily Marriage Tip For December 26, 2017:

Don’t put away your Christmas decorations yet! Remember that Christmas isn’t just a day, but a whole season. So keep singing those Christmas carols and rejoicing in the birth of Our Lord.

Daily Marriage Tip For December 25, 2017:

Unto us a child is born, unto us a Son is given. Rejoice with your family today at the best gift the world has ever received, Jesus Christ our Savior. Alleluia!

Sunday, December 24, 2017

“For nothing will be impossible for God.” (Lk 1:37) Christ became man to save us. Do not doubt that He can work wonders for and through you.

Daily Marriage Tip For December 23, 2017:

During the upcoming Christmas season, many travel to be with family. If you’re traveling or receiving visitors this Christmas, remember that it’s not just about presents but presence with others.

Daily Marriage Tip For December 22, 2017:

In the haze of last-minute Christmas shopping, meal preparations, and arranging visits to family and friends, make sure you take time to slow down and spend a few moments of quiet quality time with your spouse.

Daily Marriage Tip For December 21, 2017:

(Reader’s Tip) Use the phrase “Praised be Jesus Christ” (a traditional greeting in many countries) as the first and last words of each day to your spouse and children.

Daily Marriage Tip For December 20, 2017:

When you meet at the end of your workday, connect with your spouse before beginning that evening’s chores and activities. Catch up on each other’s days, take a walk, say some prayers…fifteen minutes together can make a world of difference.

Daily Marriage Tip For December 19, 2017:

As we wait for Christmas, it’s a good time to develop the virtue of patience. Focus on being patient today, especially with your family members. Offer up the frustrations that come from things not going the way you had planned.

Daily Marriage Tip For December 18, 2017:

The “O Antiphons” began yesterday, best known from the hymn “O Come, O Come Emmanuel.” Today’s is “O Leader of the House of Israel.” Find them all on the USCCB website (search “Advent”) and pray them as a family this week to prepare for Christ’s birth.

Daily Marriage Tip For December 17, 2017:

“He has sent me to bring glad tidings to the lowly, to heal the brokenhearted.” (Is 61:1) Gaudete Sunday, the third Sunday of Advent, reminds us of God’s gift of joy (“gaudium” in Latin) no matter what trials we are experiencing in our family.

Daily Marriage Tip For December 16, 2017:

Walk or drive around your neighborhood and look at the Christmas lights. How has your spouse been a light when you were going through a dark time?

Daily Marriage Tip For December 15, 2017:

“The time came for Elizabeth to have her child, and she gave birth to a son.” (Lk 1:57) Elizabeth waited a long time to have a child. Do you know anyone hoping to have a child? Pray for them. God willing, their time will come. If not, may they be mothers and fathers in other

Thursday, December 14, 2017

Reconciliation is crucial in every marriage. Does your parish have an Advent Penance Service? Make plans to receive the Sacrament of Penance as a family before Christmas.

Daily Marriage Tip For December 13, 2017:

If you haven’t hung up your Christmas lights, today’s a great day to do it! (Feast of St. Lucy, whose name means “light.”) How can you be more of a light to your spouse?

Daily Marriage Tip For December 12, 2017:

Our Lady of Guadalupe is the Patroness of the Americas. Celebrate by eating a dish from Mexico, where she appeared to St. Juan Diego, or learn a prayer in Spanish.

Daily Marriage Tip For December 11, 2017:

The love between husband and wife expands when shared with others. Consider participating in your parish’s Giving Tree, or inviting an elderly or single person to your holiday celebrations.

Sunday, December 10, 2017

“John [the] Baptist appeared in the desert proclaiming a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins.” (Mk 1:4) The sacraments are essential to the Christian life. Encourage your spouse to go to confession regularly. Participation in this sacrament will strengthen not only your relationship with God but your relationship with your spouse.

Daily Marriage Tip For December 9, 2017:

“And this is my prayer: that your love may increase ever more and more.” (Phil 1:9) God wants your love to grow, always.

Daily Marriage Tip For December 8, 2017:

A nice tradition today, on the Feast of the Immaculate Conception, is to give a gift to a pregnant woman you know. Pray also for mothers with difficult or unexpected pregnancies.

Daily Marriage Tip For December 7, 2017:

Ever heard of limerence? It’s a physical feeling of infatuation for another, like a crush. Although limerence can lead to committed love, it typically has a shelf life of 2-3 years. That’s why couples must transition to a more lasting love. Nurture your romance but rely on enduring friendship—and the grace of the sacrament of […]

Wednesday, December 6, 2017

St. Nicholas, whose feast is celebrated today, was known as a secret gift-giver. Surprise your spouse and children with a little treat today, and read together the story of this inspiring saint.

Daily Marriage Tip for December 5, 2017

Advent is a great season to slow down and pray with your family. The USCCB has some great resources—including an online Advent calendar!—to help you prepare for Jesus’ birth: http://www.usccb.org/prayer-and-worship/liturgical-year/advent/

Daily Marriage Tip For December 4, 2017:

A simple idea to make Advent prayerful: use your address book to pray for people alphabetically at dinner. Not sure what a person’s needs or intentions are? Consider calling or emailing them to find out.

Daily Marriage Tip for December 3

“Be watchful! Be alert! You do not know when the time will come.” (Mk 13:33) Advent is a season of waiting. As Christians, we are not only waiting for the celebration of the birth of Christ at Christmas but the day when  Christ will come again. Always be prepared to meet Christ.

Daily Marriage Tip For December 2, 2017:

Tomorrow is the first day of the season of Advent! To prepare, why not bless your Advent wreath as a family together? A wreath blessing is available on the USCCB’s website: http://www.usccb.org/prayer-and-worship/sacraments-and-sacramentals/sacramentals-blessings/objects/blessing-of-an-advent-wreath.cfm.

Daily Marriage Tip For December 1, 2017:

Sit down with your spouse and look at some of your favorite photos from the past year. What were the hard times you weathered together? Was there an unexpected blessing? Give thanks for your life and love together.

Daily Marriage Tip For November 30, 2017:

Advent starts soon, the season of anticipation for the birth of Christ. Make an Advent resolution with your family. It could be setting aside some money to tithe, committing to help an elderly neighbor this winter, or adding extra daily prayer time.

Daily Marriage Tip For November 29, 2017:

“I am the Alpha and the Omega.” (Rev 1:8) Just as God is the Beginning and the End, so your marriage has a beginning (the marriage vows) and an end (death). But don’t forget about what’s in between – the middle. Make the middle meaningful today.

Daily Marriage Tip For November 28, 2017:

Thanksgiving and Christmas are traditionally times when adult children return home and blended families gather together. This can be both a joyful and stressful time as family systems reshuffle. Be patient and remember that charity can go a long way!

Daily Marriage Tip For November 27, 2017:

Do you have a hard time getting your beloved to share thoughts and feelings with you? Some spouses are the quiet type who will talk when ready. Others just need you to “shut up” to make space for speech. Do you talk too much?

Daily Marriage Tip For November 26, 2017:

“And the king will say to them in reply, ‘Amen, I say to you, whatever you did for one of these least brothers of mine, you did for me.’” (Mt 25:40) Recognize Christ in your spouse and in all those that you meet. If you are struggling to serve your spouse, remember that you are […]

Daily Marriage Tip For November 25, 2017:

“The happiest couples have sex on a regular basis,” writes Tina Tessina, PhD. Talk about the sexual aspect of your marriage and agree on a frequency of sexual intimacy that honors both of you.

Daily Marriage Tip For November 24, 2017:

When the world is celebrating the deals and sales of Black Friday, celebrate your non-material blessings by playing games, telling stories, going for a walk, etc. as a family.

Daily Marriage Tip For November 23, 2017:

“Thanks be to God!” is a common expression not only of thanks but also of relief that a danger was averted. In this season of thanks, is there a bad fortune that you avoided? Thank God for His blessings of safety and protection in so many ways…and for all the gifts of His love, too!…

Wednesday, November 22, 2017

Today is the feast of St. Cecilia, the patron saint of music. The Catholic Church has a long and rich history of beautiful music. Does your family have a favorite hymn or praise song? Sing it together today.

Tuesday, November 21, 2017

“But of that day or hour, no one knows…” (Mk 13:32) Death is not something most people like to think about, but it is inevitable and indeed we don’t know “the day or hour.” Don’t avoid talking about your deaths – even if you’re young. Each day is a gift and meant to be lived […]

Daily Marriage Tip For November 20, 2017:

It is natural to be proud of our children’s success and take blame for their failures. Remember that they need your encouragement and support, but allow them to be independent in their life choices.

Daily Marriage Tip For November 19, 2017:

“His master said to him, ‘Well done, my good and faithful servant. Since you were faithful in small matters, I will give you great responsibilities. Come, share your master’s joy.” (Mt 25:21) God is calling us to share in His joy through the sacrament of marriage. Don’t forget to share smiles and laughter with your […]

Daily Marriage Tip For November 18, 2017:

(Reader’s Tip) Be kind and joyful. Each day pray for your spouse and, more importantly, pray with them as often as possible.

Daily Marriage Tip For November 17, 2017:

(Reader’s Tip) Pray together at meals, even if you’re in a restaurant. Don’t be afraid to show PDF’s (Public Displays of Faith).

Daily Marriage Tip For November 20, 2017:

It is natural to be proud of our children’s success and take blame for their failures. Remember that they need your encouragement and support, but allow them to be independent in their life choices.

Daily Marriage Tip For November 19, 2017:

“His master said to him, ‘Well done, my good and faithful servant. Since you were faithful in small matters, I will give you great responsibilities. Come, share your master’s joy.” (Mt 25:21) God is calling us to share in His joy through the sacrament of marriage. Don’t forget to share smiles and laughter with your […]

Daily Marriage Tip For November 18, 2017:

(Reader’s Tip) Be kind and joyful. Each day pray for your spouse and, more importantly, pray with them as often as possible.

Daily Marriage Tip For November 17, 2017:

(Reader’s Tip) Pray together at meals, even if you’re in a restaurant. Don’t be afraid to show PDF’s (Public Displays of Faith).

Daily Marriage Tip For November 20, 2017:

It is natural to be proud of our children’s success and take blame for their failures. Remember that they need your encouragement and support, but allow them to be independent in their life choices.

Daily Marriage Tip For November 19, 2017:

“His master said to him, ‘Well done, my good and faithful servant. Since you were faithful in small matters, I will give you great responsibilities. Come, share your master’s joy.” (Mt 25:21) God is calling us to share in His joy through the sacrament of marriage. Don’t forget to share smiles and laughter with your […]

Daily Marriage Tip For November 18, 2017:

(Reader’s Tip) Be kind and joyful. Each day pray for your spouse and, more importantly, pray with them as often as possible.

Daily Marriage Tip For November 17, 2017:

(Reader’s Tip) Pray together at meals, even if you’re in a restaurant. Don’t be afraid to show PDF’s (Public Displays of Faith).

Daily Marriage Tip For November 16, 2017:

As Thanksgiving approaches, blended families should plan ahead for family gatherings and parent visits. Avoid tension by not putting people whose histories don’t mix well at the same gathering.

Daily Marriage Tip For November 15, 2017:

(Reader’s Tip) Keep Jesus’s teachings at the center of your marriage: Be the first to forgive and the last to blame, and never go to sleep angry with each other.

Daily Marriage Tip For November 14, 2017:

When you are not able to be sexually intimate (illness, fatigue, wrong time of the month, separation, not in the mood…), how do you still express love to your spouse? Find a creative way to express your love today.

Daily Marriage Tip For November 13, 2017:

(Reader’s Tip) I show my wife how much I love and appreciate her each day by lovingly waking her, making breakfast, and starting her car on cold mornings.

Daily Marriage Tip For November 12, 2017:

“Therefore stay awake, for you know neither the day nor the hour.” (Mt 25:13) It’s not uncommon nowadays to hear someone say the world is ending soon – but really, we don’t know when it will end. Instead of worrying about your time left on earth, focus on being present to your family in every […]

Daily Marriage Tip For November 11, 2017:

“Elijah said to [the widow], ‘Do not be afraid.’” (1 Kings 17:13) Do you have money worries? Have you ever? Do you or your spouse worry more about money? If you don’t have true worries about money, it’s time to give some away.

Daily Marriage Tip For November 10, 2017:

Yearning for a baby? For some couples, pregnancy comes quickly, but for those still waiting, it can be emotionally draining. Natural Family Planning can help couples identify their most fertile days. Pray for pregnant couples and for those who wait.

Daily Marriage Tip For November 9, 2017:

“Zeal for your house will consume me.” (Jn 2:17) What role does the Mass play in your home? Does it make a difference if you go as a family? Discuss why you go to Mass and what it means to each of you.

Daily Marriage Tip For November 8, 2017:

(Reader’s Tip) Embrace the Cross. Marriage, like any vocation, is a path to holiness, with its sorrows as well as joys.

Daily Marriage Tip For November 7, 2017:

Do you know what romantic gestures your spouse loves the most? Is it candlelight, a shoulder rub, flowers, written notes, a favorite dessert or meal? Surprise him/her with a special gesture sometime this week.

Daily Marriage Tip For November 6, 2017:

(Reader’s Tip) Celebrate achievements that you know are important to your spouse. Let your kids know when and why you are proud of each other, especially when it is for things that might not be important to anyone else.

Daily Marriage Tip For November 5, 2017:

“The greatest among you must be your servant. Whoever exalts himself will be humbled; but whoever humbles himself will be exalted.” (Mt 23:11-12) Who doesn’t want to be noticed and applauded? Jesus’ words certainly sound like a paradox. Do small things with great love today – sometimes it’s the little, hidden things that make the […]

Daily Marriage Tip For November 4, 2017:

“You shall love your neighbor as yourself.” (Mk 12:31) This presumes that you have a humble and honest self-love. Keep yourself healthy as a gift to your spouse. This includes exercising and not smoking or drinking excessively

Daily Marriage Tip For November 2, 2017:

“For this is the will of my Father, that everyone who sees the Son and believes in him may have eternal life, and I shall raise him on the last day.” (Jn 6:40) Today we commemorate All Souls’ Day when we remember all those who have gone before us in faith. Visit the graves of […]

Daily Marriage Tip For November 1, 2017:

Married couples sometimes speak of leading each other to heaven. Show your spouse how much God loves them by doing an unexpected kindness for them today.

Daily Marriage Tip For October 31, 2017:

Halloween is a time when adults and kids get to play and pretend – guilt free. If you could dress up as any famous couple in history, who would it be? Why?

Daily Marriage Tip For October 30, 2017:

When was the last time the two of you laughed so hard you cried? Think of a way to help your honey laugh today – even if it’s embarrassing.

Daily Marriage Tip For October 29, 2017:

“You shall love the Lord, your God, with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind.” (Mt 22:37) God must be at the center of each marriage. You can love and serve Him through your love and service to your spouse.

Daily Marriage Tip For October 28, 2017:

Do you and your spouse spend most of the day apart because of work or school schedules? Pick a common time during the day to pause and hold each other in prayer for 10 seconds.

Daily Marriage Tip For October 27, 2017:

“Whoever wishes to be great among you must be your servant.” (Mk 10:43) Just for fun, see which of you can serve the other more today. Make a game out of it if you wish. “No, let me get the door, the snack, make dinner, etc.” “No, honey, you must let me do it.”

 

Thursday, October 26, 2017

(Reader’s Tip) Find peace in your role in your family, and prayerfully respect the roles of all members of the family. We help each other out but honor each other’s distinct role.

Daily Marriage Tip For October 25, 2017:

(Reader’s Tip) You do not have to like your spouse 100% of the time, but love them with all your heart.

Daily Marriage Tip For October 24, 2017:

Autumn is a great time for outdoor activities with your family. Take advantage of the cooler weather to go star-gazing, pick your own apples at an orchard, or walk through a local pumpkin patch.

Daily Marriage Tip For October 23, 2017:

(Reader’s Tip) See your spouse as the most precious gift you will ever receive. Do not underestimate God’s ability to send you the spouse who will help you grow spiritually and personally.

Daily Marriage Tip For October 22, 2017:

“Then repay to Caesar what belongs to Caesar and to God what belongs to God” (Mt 22:21). It is easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of everyday life but you must not forget to devote time to God, both on your own and with your spouse.

Daily Marriage Tip For October 21, 2017:

It’s important to prioritize your relationship with your spouse, especially after you have children. Your children will benefit from your strong marriage.

Daily Marriage Tip For October 20, 2017:

As the years go on, life can become routine and monotonous. Today, reminisce with your spouse about the early days of your relationship; the memories might reignite the fire of your love!

Daily Marriage Tip For October 19, 2017:

Marriage enrichment programs aren’t just for marriages in trouble! Research shows that couples attending marriage enrichment programs report more marital happiness. Look for a retreat or program in your diocese to attend with your spouse.

Daily Marriage Tip For October 18, 2017:

Positivity is key for fruitful communication. Encourage your spouse often, and let kindness override criticism.

Daily Marriage Tip For October 17, 2017:

(Reader’s Tip) Find a task or chore that is your spouse’s least favorite thing to do (taking out the trash, doing the dishes) and do it for them as often as you can.

Daily Marriage Tip For October 16, 2017:

“The spirit of wisdom came to me.” (Wisdom 7:7) What’s the wisest thing your beloved has ever said or done (besides marrying you)? Tell him or her.

Daily Marriage Tip For October 15, 2017:

“Go out, therefore, into the main roads and invite to the feast whomever you find” (Mt 22:9). Consider helping other couples as they prepare for the sacrament of marriage or as they seek to live out this sacrament. Help out with your parish marriage preparation or enrichment programs. Bringing others to Christ will help to […]

Daily Marriage Tip For October 14, 2017:

An old proverb says, “The most important thing a father can do for his children is to love their mother.” Don’t get so busy caring for your child that you forget the love that brought that child into being.

Daily Marriage Tip For October 13, 2017:

Do you have any divorced friends? Many of us do. Go out of your way to show them love today by giving them a phone call, sending a note, or inviting them over for dinner.

Daily Marriage Tip For October 12, 2017:

The empty nest can be quite a transition, but it can also be an opportunity to discover new adventures with your spouse. Let this time inspire new hobbies, interests, and shared activities.

Daily Marriage Tip For October 11, 2017:

Respecting human life means investing in children and nurturing their lives from conception until adulthood. Do you and your spouse support your friends’ children as well as your own children?

Daily Marriage Tip For October 10, 2017:

In the book of Genesis, we read that “God made them male and female.” How do you and your spouse complement each other as man and woman?

Daily Marriage Tip For October 9, 2017:

(Reader’s Tip) Always treat each other with respect, whether it’s in front of the children, in public or just the two of you. Avoid blatant insults or passive-aggressive comments.

Daily Marriage Tip For October 7, 2017:

October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month. If you’re in a healthy marriage, give thanks. If you suspect someone is being abused, provide them with the National Domestic Violence Hotline number (1-800-799-SAFE).

Daily Marriage Tip For October 6, 2017:

(Reader’s Tip) My husband and I set an alarm on our phones for the same time each day. When the alarm goes off, it reminds us to stop and pray for our marriage

Thursday, October 5, 2017

Are you and your spouse compatible spenders/savers? You don’t have to have the same “money personality,” but be sure to keep the lines of communication open as you and your spouse consider the needs of your family.

Daily Marriage Tip For October 4, 2017:

On her wedding day, a bride listed ten of her husband’s faults she would overlook for the sake of their marriage. On their 50th anniversary, she revealed that she never actually made the list; she just kept overlooking irritations! Overlook a fault today.

Daily Marriage Tip For October 3, 2017:

Love in marriage is a gift from God and a call to holiness. How can you make Christ present to your spouse today?

Daily Marriage Tip For October 2, 2017:

October is Respect Life Month. We are reminded to value all human life and creation, especially the unborn, the poor, and the vulnerable. As a family, consider making a donation of goods, time, or money to a group that helps those in need.

Daily Marriage Tip For October 1, 2017:

 

 

 

 

 

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ses develop a comfort with each other’s idiosyncrasies. What crazy things do you love about your spouse?

 

 

 

 

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