This episode of The Inner Life with Patrick Conley was 🔥, exploring the ever-relevant topic of being “open to life” in marriage. Patrick brought on Fr. Peter Armenio to help unpack the Catholic Church’s countercultural take on marriage. Check out the whole episode here!

The key message? The Catholic Church teaches that marriage isn’t just about love and companionship; it’s also about creating life together. And while this may not be the message the world is throwing at us, Fr. Armenio and Patrick agree that it’s the richest, fullest, and most beautiful vision of marriage. 💍👶

Being “open to life” essentially means that the marital act between husband and wife must reflect a total gift of self: no holding back. This means that when a couple is intimate, they’re saying, “I’m open to whatever life God might bless us with.” Anything that removes that openness (like contraception) disrupts the sacredness of the act, turning it from an act of mutual self-gift into something less. 😬

Fr. Armenio shared a powerful story about a couple struggling in their marriage. When he bravely asked them if they were using contraception, the wife broke down in tears. She felt used, like an object rather than a beloved spouse. This speaks to the heart of what St. John Paul II taught in his Theology of the Body: when couples are not open to life, there’s a danger of turning the other into an object, stripping away the sacredness of their union. 💔

Here’s the good news: couples who embrace being open to life often find their marriages blessed in unexpected ways. It’s challenging, yes, but they discover a deeper bond, a stronger faith, and more joy than they ever thought possible.

Being open to life takes courage, especially in today’s world. Just because it’s hard doesn’t mean it’s not true. In fact, the challenge can be a sign that you’re onto something real and beautiful. 💪

So, are you ready to take the leap of faith and embrace all that God has in store for your marriage?

The best way to listen to the Best of the Week is on our #1 Free Catholic App. It’s free, and always will be! To get and share the Relevant Radio app, check it out here.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Subscribe: RSS