Jesus reaffirmed that marriage is a gift from God (Genesis 1:27-28, 2:25), a relationship unique among all others (Matthew 19:3-6). Marriage unites in a lifelong union the two halves of humanity, man and woman, each with their complementary role in order to serve as the proper place for romantic, sexual love and for creating new life.  

Marriage is building block upon which all of society is built, and it is at the heart of the family. Together, marriage and the family serve as foundational institutions upon which all other institutions depend. When marriages and families break down, the moral and social fabric of society breaks down, and the most important “check” on the power of government is lost.  

We support efforts to encourage and strengthen marriages and families, including eliminating marriage penalties in social programs and encouraging families to stay together. We oppose efforts to penalize marriages, encourage a culture of divorce, or redefine marriage.