Archbishop Charles Scicluna urged engaged couples to ground their relationships in fidelity, patience and daily prayer, as he addressed those preparing to marry during a Mass held on the eve of the Solemnity of the Baptism of the Lord.
On Saturday, 10 January on the eve of the Solemnity of the Baptism of the Lord, Archbishop Charles Scicluna celebrated a Mass for couples who will be receiving the Sacrament of Marriage during this year.
The Mass was organised with the participation of the Cana Movement.
The Archbishop prayed for the engaged couples that their love may continue to grow and be purified as they prepare for their wedding and married life.
He encouraged them to learn patience with one another and with each other’s imperfections from now, and not only after the wedding day.
He spoke of the importance of rejoicing in the person who will become their life partner, just as the Lord proclaimed at Jesus’ baptism: “This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased” (Mt 17:5).
Scicluna repeated his Christmas message to the Maltese people to reduce their use of smartphones.
“This blessed smartphone we hold in our hands – we are always looking at it. Look at each other instead. Your gaze towards one another must be real, not virtual. If you need to say something difficult, wait a moment so she can see your face, instead of sending a cold message which might hurt her because she did not understand what you meant, or he did not understand what she meant,” Scicluna said.
He also encouraged them to make peace before going to sleep whenever they have disagreements.
Archbishop Scicluna also advised them to keep things clear between themselves and their families, warning them against excessive interference.
“I hope they leave you in peace. Clear agreements, long friendships. The nest you will build is yours – not your sister-in-law’s and not your brother-in-law’s,” Scicluna said.
He also warned them about the temptations they may encounter, urging them to remain strong and not give in to them.
“Your fidelity to one another must be acquired and fought for every day, fidelity in thought, in words, and in where the heart goes,” Scicluna said.
In his final reflection, he encouraged the couples to make the Lord part of their lives and to prepare for a Christian marriage through confession and Holy Communion.
He urged them to make Sunday Mass part of their routine and to pray together daily.
Scicluna concluded by wishing them that, if the Lord blesses them with children, “you will be able to give them not only human love, but also a beautiful faith that makes them part of the Lord’s family.”