This video from Catholic Central explains the Catholic understanding of marriage as a sacrament, contrasting it with civil marriage and exploring its key elements and implications. It addresses the lifelong commitment, openness to children, and public vows involved. The video also touches on divorce and annulments within the Catholic context.
According to the video, the four conditions necessary for a sacramental marriage are:
One man and one woman must enter into the marriage freely. The spouses must be free to marry; there can be no conditions hindering this freedom (e.g., close relation, prior marriage).
They freely exchange their consent. They must be free from other vows or ties and choose each other independently, without pressure.
Consent to live out what the Church means by marriage: a covenant to marry for life, be faithful, and be open to children.
The exchange of vows takes place publicly before a Church minister, usually in a church. This public aspect is crucial because Catholic marriage is seen as a sign of God's love for the community and world.