Familiaris Consortio Essay

Familiaris Consortio means â€Å"On the Role of the Christian Family in the Modern World†. It is an Apostolic Exhortation given by Pope John-Paul II on the 22nd of November, 1981 and is mainly about the family, the married couple, the children, parenting. In today’s society it is easy to lose sight of what marriage is, it is often rushed and have been based on materialistic things and the social stature an individual such as wealth, appearance and job. One thing that it made me realizes is that it is important that we understand that marriage is not just a union of two people but it is a sacred bond that helps us achieve true happiness and fulfillment in life therefore it must not be rushed, we must choose our partners wisely and whole heartedly before commiting into marriage. This document also tells us that humans were created by God from love and that it is instilled in us and we have the responsibility to promote this through marriage and building a family. I realized that in order to achieve this kind of love, it is important that in marriage, both individuals are willing to give themselves completely to one another and at the same time have a strong faith in God because it is in God’s blessing that this bond will be strengthened. The document also points out the general tasks of the family which is to form a community of persons ready to serve life, participate in its development, and share amongst others the life and mission of the Church. I have realized that having a happy family must be based on love, understanding, communication and care. It is important that husband and wife respect one another no matter what. I also realized that children in the family have many rights some of these rights being the right to grow up properly in a home with a mother and a father that will guide them throughout their lives and the right to discover their true identity, dignity and potential in life. Every parent has a duty to promote and defend these rights for their children and be a good example that they can follow and look up to. The Familiaris Consortio for me is like a guide for all people about marriage. It tells us its importance and sacredness and helps us use this marriage to have a happy life. It guides and makes us understand all the responsibilities we are engaging and are expected to have in committing into marriage. Lastly, it strengthens our relationship with God and with our family by giving us certain realizations and ideas about taking care of one another treating one another equally.