Homily for Sunday Mass at St. Michael the Archangel’s Parish, Lawrence, Kansas

Date: June 1, 2025

Title: “The Sacred Bond of Marriage and Our Commitment to One Another”

Dear brothers and sisters in Christ,

Today, as we gather in the presence of our Lord, I want to reflect on the sacredness of marriage, the responsibilities we bear in our relationships, and the profound implications of our choices in light of our faith.

In our journey of life, many of us enter into the sacrament of marriage with hopes and dreams of a shared future—filled with love, companionship, and mutual support. However, I want to share a story that challenges us to examine the very foundation of our relationships when expectations clash with reality.

Imagine a woman who marries a man, believing she will enjoy a life free from the burdens of work. Her sights are set on a life of comfort and ease, supported by a devoted husband. Yet, as circumstances unfold, life’s challenges emerge. When her husband faces financial difficulties, she finds herself compelled to work, an unexpected shift that creates tension and conflict.

In this moment of struggle, instead of standing beside her husband, she strays from the path of fidelity, seeking solace in another relationship. In doing so, she not only betrays her husband’s trust but also breaks the sacred bond they created before God. Adultery is a serious violation of the marital covenant—a wound that causes profound damage to both partners and the family as a whole.

The Catechism reminds us that marriage is not merely a contract but a sacrament, a reflection of Christ’s unconditional love for His Church. We are called to support one another through thick and thin, to lift each other up in times of trial, and to embody compassion and grace. Instead, this woman chooses betrayal, walking away from the commitment she made, and undermining the sacred partnership established in love.

As time goes on, she immerses herself in a new belief system, one that she deems more binding than her previous faith. Yet, instead of inviting her husband along this spiritual journey, she demands that he conform to her new beliefs, disregarding his own conscience and comfort. Brothers and sisters, true faith is a personal journey—one that requires respect and understanding. We cannot force our beliefs upon others; rather, we are called to engage in loving discussions that foster growth in faith.

When relationships reach the point of separation, we must remember that divorce should never be the first option. The Church teaches us to seek reconciliation over division, to strive for healing rather than revenge. This story illustrates how deeply harmful words and actions can be, especially when directed against one’s spouse or partner.

As parents, we hold the sacred duty to teach our children the values of love, respect, and unity. Poisoning a child’s heart against one parent is an egregious violation of this duty. Our children should be nurtured in an environment of peace, not conflict. We must remember that our choices as parents shape our children’s understanding of love and relationships in their own lives.

Dear friends, let us reflect on our own commitments and actions. Are we living out the values of love, fidelity, and compassion in our relationships? Are we upholding the dignity of our spouses, our families, and ourselves? It is crucial to remember that we are accountable for our actions, and through God’s grace, we can seek redemption and healing.

As we go forth from this Mass, let us commit to building relationships that reflect Christ’s love for us. Let us embrace our sacred vows and honor the bonds of family, seeking always to uplift one another. May we find strength in our faith and grace in our interactions as we navigate this journey together.

May God bless you and keep you in His loving care. Amen.