Through Matrimony, a man and a woman enter into a lifelong covenant with each other that seeks the procreation of children and the mutual good of the spouses. As we see in Genesis, we have been created for communion as male and female, when Adam exclaims:
“This at last is bone of my bones and flesh of my flesh.” ~ Genesis 2:23
No other creature could fulfill him as could Eve, the one who was uniquely created for him. The bond of marriage joins spouses together in faithfulness to one another and the fruitfulness of loving parenthood, echoing the words of the psalmist:
“Your wife will be like a fruitful vine within your house; your children will be like olive shoots around your table.” ~ Psalm 128:3
The mystery of Christ, however, has revealed something even more profound about marriage. Spouses are called to be sacramental images of Jesus’ relationship with the Church (see Ephesians 5:22–33).
Therefore, every Christian family is a kind of “domestic Church.” As parents, husbands and wives are responsible for the catechesis of their children, teaching and forming them in the life of faith. This lofty, frequently difficult calling requires the special grace given by the sacrament and lived with increasing depth by faithful spouses.
Experiencing life’s joys and sorrows together as a couple and as a family, those who are indissolubly joined together in sacramental marriage become a radiant image of Christ’s communion with the Church.
{excerpt taken from Ascencion Press "Journey thru the Catechism"}