Which statement best describes the sacramental nature of marriage?

Which statement best describes the sacramental nature of marriage?

• A. It is raised to a sacrament by Jesus at the wedding at Cana
• B. It is a civil contract
• C. Only for baptized
• D. Conferred by priest alone

Answer: (A)

Jesus elevates marriage to a sacrament by his presence and blessing at the wedding at Cana, showing that a husband and wife enter into a holy, grace-filled partnership rather than just a human agreement. This moment reveals that marriage is a sign and instrument of God’s grace, empowering the couple to love faithfully, live in lifelong unity, and be open to life. Because of that divine dimension, marriage is more than a civil contract; it is a sacred covenant sustained by God and celebrated by the Church. The idea that only baptized people receive this is too narrow, and the notion that the sacrament is conferred by the priest alone misses the essential element—the spouses' own consent—though the priest witnesses and blesses the ceremony.

Jesus elevates marriage to a sacrament by his presence and blessing at the wedding at Cana, showing that a husband and wife enter into a holy, grace-filled partnership rather than just a human agreement. This moment reveals that marriage is a sign and instrument of God’s grace, empowering the couple to love faithfully, live in lifelong unity, and be open to life. Because of that divine dimension, marriage is more than a civil contract; it is a sacred covenant sustained by God and celebrated by the Church. The idea that only baptized people receive this is too narrow, and the notion that the sacrament is conferred by the priest alone misses the essential element—the spouses' own consent—though the priest witnesses and blesses the ceremony.