Introduction
Marriage is a blessed union, a “covenant by which a man and a woman establish between themselves a partnership of the whole of life,” as defined by the Catechism of the Catholic Church (CCC, 1601). Yet, even the most faithful unions can go through rough patches. What can you do if your marriage is on the rocks? The answer, from the heart of the Catholic faith, is prayer. Prayer has the power to fortify relationships and bring couples back to the essence of their vows. Let’s delve into why and how prayer can make a significant impact.
The Sacrament of Matrimony
First, it’s crucial to understand that marriage isn’t just a social contract in the eyes of the Church; it’s a Sacrament. In the Sacrament of Matrimony, God offers couples “graces that perfect the natural love” between them, leading to unity and indissolubility (CCC, 1641). Therefore, the power of prayer in marriage should not be underestimated. It taps into the graces of the Sacrament, asking God to intervene in a special way.
The Power of Prayer in Scripture
Prayer has always been central to the life of faith. We’re told to “pray without ceasing” (1 Thessalonians 5:17) and that if two or three are gathered in Jesus’ name, He is there among them (Matthew 18:20). Importantly, the Bible emphasizes the strength of a united couple. Ecclesiastes 4:12 states: “Though one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves. A cord of three strands is not quickly broken.” In a Christian marriage, that third strand is God. When you involve Him through prayer, you weave strength into the fabric of your relationship.
What Prayer to Pray?
While there are many beautiful prayers for marriage, you might consider beginning with a simple yet profound prayer, like the “Our Father,” which Jesus Himself taught us (Matthew 6:9-13). In it, you’ll find petitions that are relevant to your married life: “forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us” reminds us of the need for mercy and forgiveness, essential qualities in any marriage.
Another useful prayer for marriage in times of difficulty is the “Prayer of St. Francis of Assisi.” Although this prayer is not directly from the Bible, it has been beloved by Catholics for generations:
Lord, make me an instrument of your peace:
where there is hatred, let me sow love;
where there is injury, pardon;
where there is doubt, faith;
where there is despair, hope;
where there is darkness, light;
where there is sadness, joy.This prayer asks for the virtues needed to be a good spouse: love, pardon, faith, hope, light, and joy.
The Rosary: A Weapon for Marital Harmony
The Rosary is often described as a “weapon” against evil. St. John Paul II called it a “compendium of the Gospel,” an ideal prayer to meditate upon the life of Christ and to bring His graces into your marriage. Praying the Rosary together can be a strong defense against the troubles that plague marriages today. As the Catechism notes, the family is the “domestic Church” (CCC, 1655). Within this small Church, the Rosary can be an anchor.
Invoking the Saints: Friends in High Places
Besides praying directly to God, you can also seek the intercession of saints who are specialists in marital strife. St. Monica, for instance, prayed for years for the conversion of her husband and son, Augustine, who would later become a saint himself. St. Rita is another powerful intercessor, as she endured a difficult marriage with grace and holiness. These saints are not God, but they’re close friends of God who can put in a good word for you.
Consistency is Key
No prayer is a magic spell. Consistency and sincerity in your dialogue with God are essential. The Catechism says, “Prayer is the life of the new heart” (CCC, 2697). This new heart is what we seek for our marriages, a heart that mirrors the love Christ has for His Church (Ephesians 5:25).
Theological Opinions Versus Universal Teaching
Everything discussed so far is in line with the universal teachings of the Catholic Church on marriage and prayer. Some might hold theological opinions about specific devotions or saints being more effective than others, but those remain private opinions, not universal doctrine.
Conclusion
Marriage is a profound journey, one that can have its share of ups and downs. Prayer is not a quick fix but a lifeline, a way to tap into the divine graces that were poured into your marriage on the day you said, “I do.” So if you find your marriage is in need of strengthening, remember: prayer is your stronghold. In the words of Jesus, “Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and the door will be opened to you” (Matthew 7:7).