THE CHRISTIAN SHELF ON MARRIAGE PREPARATION | KAIROS GLOBAL | MAY 2021

Author: Noel Benno Joseph

There are several Catholic/Christian books that help one prepare for the sacrament of Holy Matrimony. Here we take a look at some of the popular ones. 

Three to Get Married * Fulton J. Sheen

In this phenomenal book for those discerning marriage, either singles or couples, and also for married couples, Venerable Fulton Sheen covers all areas one would expect – love, sex, parenthood, children, ‘For Better or for Worse,’ and even a late chapter on historical couples persevering through major trials for the sake of their marriage. A wonderful work from a master of philosophy, theology, and spiritual advice, this will also serve as a bridge to JP II’s Theology of the Body.

Holy Marriage, Happy Marriage: Faith-filled ways to a Better Relationship * Chris and Linda Padgett

High-school sweethearts, Chris and Linda Padgett have been married for over twenty-four years and have had their share of ups and downs, and know from experience how a strong faith creates a strong relationship. Their individual perspectives go beyond pop theories to explore the results of faithfully practicing mutual respect, solid commitment, and open communication with your spouse over the long haul. The book, topped with humor, honesty, and personal stories, offer hope for even the most challenging relationship.

The Marriage God Wants for You: Why the Sacrament Makes All the Difference * Cardinal Donal Wuerl

With his customary lucidity and depth, Cardinal Wuerl brings out the essential features of marriage as the Catholic Church understands it: fidelity, permanence, openness to life, and sacramentality. The book also includes some wonderful, funny, and gritty reflections from married couples themselves. A quick and easy read with real life applications, this book proves to be super useful and illuminating at the same time.

Good News about Sex and Marriage * Christopher West

In this book, popular writer and lecturer Christopher West makes the Church's teachings about marriage and sexuality accessible to the average Catholic in a very readable question-and-answer format. He doesn't shy away from dealing with controversial issues, but approaches them in a spirit of compassion and ultimately presents the Catholic vision of marriage and sexuality as the sacred and beautiful vision that it is. Whether you are married, single, or a priest or a religious, this is a great resource.

The Meaning of Marriage * Timothy J. Keller 

Based on the acclaimed sermon series by New York Times bestselling author Timothy Keller, this book shows everyone—Christians, sceptics, singles, long-time married couples, and those about to be engaged—the vision of what marriage should be according to the Bible. This book combines Tim’s insightful understanding of Scripture with his wife Kathy’s realistic commentary

The Mystery of Marriage * Mike Mason

Inspired by the great classics of devotional literature, this book explores, in profound and poetic writing, the dynamic correspondence between marriage and the great invisible realities of the Christian faith. In a marriage market flooded with ‘how-to’ books, this one dares to be something different: a ‘how-come’ book, a meditative inquiry into ‘the mystery of marriage’ with a view to renewing and refreshing married love at its source. Translated into 30 languages, this book is globally acclaimed for its clarity of thought and practicality. 

How to Find Your Soulmate without Losing Your Soul * Jason and Crystalina Evert

In this short book authored by the Catholic couple, Jason and Crystalina, you'll discover twenty-one strategies to help you raise the bar, instead of sitting at it, waiting around for Mr /Mrs Wonderful. A great addition to youth/study groups, this book deeply explores concepts of abstinence and purity until marriage and is bound to make us think about what to look for in a soulmate in this era of mass confusion around sexuality and marriage. 

Life-Giving Love: Embracing God's Beautiful Design for Marriage * Kimberly Hahn

Kimberly Hahn uses real-life stories to make a beautifully clear and gentle presentation of the Catholic Church's teaching on marriage and family, including sexuality, family planning and even topics like infertility and adoption. She puts a special emphasis on Natural Family Planning and the Catholic case for the same.

A former William J. Clinton Fellow and TEDx speaker, Noel Benno is a Technology Strategy Consultant and enjoys cooking fish and meat while not busy with charts and excel sheets.