Where does the child fit in regarding marriage?

In the center of it all. For aeons marriage has been recognized as the fundamental institution for life. The child has a privileged place—or should have—in any consideration of marriage. However, more recently, understandings about marriage have largely reflected an “adultocentric” vision, with little to no regard for the child and the responsibility of parenting, that is, mothering and fathering. The child has often become a pawn or instrument at the expense of adult wishes. A vision of marriage which sees the child as inessential for considering the nature and responsibilities of marriage is fundamentally flawed and drastically at odds with the testimony of the ages.

Preserving and promoting marriage means preserving and promoting the fundamental place of the child in society. The child deserves the love of a father and a mother, to grow up within a home formed by the love of husband and wife, to grow up and learn what it means to be either a man or a woman. Society needs children and needs an attitude that is respectful and welcoming towards life. Only within such an attitude can all women and men find the respect and affirmation they deserve as persons. To welcome the child is to welcome hope. To preserve the truth of marriage is to protect this hope, this gift of the child, and hence the gift that every person is.

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