Marriage

“Matrimonial consent in today’s secularized society”

Keynote speech by Professor Gambino at the 54th ASCAI National Congress in Pompei
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From 2 to 5 September 2024, the 54th Congress of Associazione Canonistica italiana (ASCAI) took place in Pompei under the theme “Matrimonial consent and lack of faith: teachings and case law”. Held at Sala Marianna De Fusco in the Pompei shrine, the Congress was opened by the keynote speech delivered by Professor Gabriella Gambino, Undersecretary of the Dicastery for Laity, Family and Life, focusing on the topic of matrimonial consent in today’s secularized society.

Addressing the challenges posed by cases regarding the nullity of marriage

In a complex time of extended secularization, the interweaving of law and pastoral care commitment demands new reflections on marriage and family, which allow to better address the challenges posed by many and frequent cases regarding the nullity of marriage.

The issue of the relation between faith, consent, and the validity of the sacrament of marriage takes on an unprecedented meaning, especially in relation to the persistent phenomenon of dechristianization of contemporary culture. We need to seriously understand whether the intent to do what the Church does, when a marriage is celebrated, is really always present in the new generations of baptized, especially the non-believers.

Choosing marriage with greater awareness

The widespread lack of faith and formation in faith can significantly compromise the will of future spouses regarding the elements of natural marriage: loyalty, indissolubility, and fertility. The struggle to understand the depth and implications of such goods calls the Church for a more conscious narration of what is happening, as well as a more targeted action to prevent the celebration of null or inconsistent marriages. Against this backdrop, it is vital to create the conditions to become a Church that knows how to accompany, that knows how to offer catechumenal ways to grow in faith for those approaching the sacrament of marriage; a Church of discernment, where each individual is supported in discovering the real project of God in their lives and in choosing marriage with greater awareness, with the desire to grow the action of the grace in their marital and family lives.

In this respect, the speech delivered by the Undersecretary proposes an ecclesial journey aiming to make the preparation to marriage more effective, starting with synergy and greater collaboration between canon law experts and pastoral care professionals.

The text will be published soon in the collection of the Congress minutes, curated by Libreria Editrice Vaticana (LEV).

 

14 October 2024