August 14. SEE.   Marriage crises.   Paula shared, “Sexual issues can and do impact on couple relationships in various ways but we, individuals and couples, seldom seem to bring these issues to the Church. Are we embarrassed or think we won’t be listened to or accepted?”  “There are competent experts who are able to speak to married life from a “God-perspective,”  Joan replied, “but it is also good to consult professionals in this area to help us explore our concerns and experiences, e.g. childhood abuse in the past and the effects that still has in the present.”   

JUDGE. Reflect, share, act. Scripture:   The Pharisees tested him by asking, “Is it lawful to divorce one’s wife for any cause”? Jesus said, “Have you not read that he who made them from the beginning made them made and female and said, “For this reason a man shall leave his father and mother and be joined to his wife and the two shall become one.”?  Matt  19:3-12 Pope Francis. Situations will arise involving human weakness and these can prove emotionally overwhelming. One spouse may not feel fully appreciated, or may be attracted to another person.  Jealousy and tensions may emerge or new interests that consume the other’s time and attention.  Physical changes naturally occur in everyone. These and so many other things rather than threatening love are so many occasions for reviving and renewing it. AL 237   “Be subject to one another.(Ephesians 5)”  In marriage this reciprocal submission takes on a special meaning, and is seen as a freely chosen mutual belonging, marked by fidelity, respect and care. Sexuality is inseparably at the service of this conjugal friendship for it is meant to aid the fulfilment of the other.  AL 136.  Pope Leo: 165. The family is a primary social good. Founded on the enduring union between a man and a woman, it is the first environment in which all persons develop their potential, become aware of their dignity and learn the earliest forms of truth and goodness, internalizing the habits that prepare them for life in society.  MH 165.  

ACT AND PRAY.   Reflect and share as appropriate. Pray St Francis Peace Prayer and pray: Mary, Queen Assumed into Heaven, Patroness of South Africa, pray for us.