Premarital Catechesis for a Domestic Church: Preparation for a Community of Life and Faith

Abstract

This article examines the need to renew premarital catechesis so that it becomes a genuine journey of evangelization and preparation for Christian married life. Drawing on the teaching of the Second Vatican Council and subsequent papal documents, it explores the importance of marriage preparation and its relationship to the Church's evangelizing mission. The study develops a theological understanding of the family as a domestic Church, identifying within it the essential marks of the Church and emphasizing its vocation as a community of love, life, mission, and service. From this perspective, it argues that the preparation of engaged couples cannot be reduced to the transmission of doctrinal knowledge or the fulfillment of a sacramental requirement, but must foster a personal encounter with Jesus Christ and growth in faith. It therefore advocates a catechumenally inspired approach to premarital catechesis, structured as an integral, progressive, and continuous process of formation that includes spiritual, doctrinal, human, and practical dimensions. Finally, the article outlines a practical proposal involving professionals from different fields, opportunities for shared experiences, accompaniment, and evaluation, with the aim of helping future spouses discern their matrimonial vocation and establish a Christian family that both receives and proclaims the Gospel.