So much is being said about marriage, separation, annulment and divorce. Everyone speaks emotionally about a topic which was instituted not by a politician or a king but by God.
A positive note about all this discussion is that deep down we recognise that it is an important institution. As in all other institutions, problems may crop up but it is the way one tackles them that reveals the maturity and responsibility of a person.
Unlike what is pictured, in Malta according to official statistics, the large majority of registered marriages were religious. These believe in a religious marriage with its commitment of loving each other till death.
For a practising Catholic, apart from satisfying certain obligations, this means obeying Christ’s teaching that is found clearly in the Bible: “For this reason a man shall leave his father and mother and be joined to his wife, and the two shall become one flesh. Therefore, what God has joined together, no human being must separate.” (Matthew 19:5)
I shall vote no to divorce because I strongly believe this law will bring a change in mentality. It is not true it will fix all the problems of those who unfortunately had an unsuccessful marriage. My husband and I took our marriage vows with the determination and hope that we should do our best to keep it going for life.
Till now, a couple do their utmost to solve their problems to lessen any suffering, especially to the innocent children. However, with the introduction of divorce, future generations will have this option at the back of their mind. Maybe in front of the altar on looking at each other these spouses may wonder if the other spouse will one day opt out of this commitment.
Our decision should be to strengthen marriage and not weaken it by giving in to divorce.
In spite of conflicts, in our country the family is still treasured and loved. Last year, enthusiastic crowds flocked to greet Pope Benedict, who on the Granaries told us: “Continue to explore the richness and depth of Paul’s gift to you and be sure to hand it on, not only to your children, but to all those you encounter today.” Let us keep these words as our guide and struggle to keep the family united.