In recent years the Church has called for a more intensive formation for couples preparing for the vocation of marriage, both before the wedding and in the months and years to follow. John and Claire Grabowski’s One Body: A Program of Marriage Preparation and Enrichment for the New Evangelization is an answer to that call. Through the teaching of Scripture and the Tradition of the Church, One Body guides couples preparing for marriage and living out their vocation in such important topics as forming a new family, marriage as a covenant and a sacrament, sexuality and the gift of children, mutual submission in marriage, fostering intimacy in all of its forms, constructive conflict resolution, and “investing” in a marriage. Written with a seamless blend of real-world experience and faithful theology, including resources to strengthen and sustain vibrant Christian marriages, this easy-to-follow program answers the Church’s call to dive deeper into this vital sacrament.

About the author:

 Claire Grabowski graduated from Franciscan University of Steubenville in 1985. John Grabowski earned his PhD from Marquette University in 1991. He is an Associate Professor and the Director of Moral Theology/ Ethics at The Catholic University of America. He is the author of Sex and Virtue and Transformed in Christ. John and Claire were appointed as a Member Couple to the Pontifical Council for the Family by Pope Benedict XVI in 2009. They are the authors of the commentary for the anniversary edition of St. John Paul II’s Familiaris Consortio. They have been married since 1985.

Endorsements:

 “This is a deep, rich, profoundly valuable tool for couples preparing for marriage as a lifelong vocation and who want theirs to last. But it’s also a great ongoing resource for the already-married. Wonderfully organized and written, and highly recommended.”
—Most. Rev. Charles J. Chaput, O.F.M. Cap., Archbishop of Philadelphia

“Grounded in solid Catholic theology, attractively presented, and helpfully seasoned with real-life examples from married life, One Body provides readers with a healthy and holy appreciation of the gifts of a generous and happily married couple. The seven lessons can serve as a great resource for parish study groups.”
—Most Reverend Joseph E. Kurtz, D.D., Archbishop of Louisville

“With great vigor, Pope Francis has reminded us of the need to accompany spouses and those considering marriage along their journeys. . . . There is much to be gained by the small groups or couples who utilize this sound and practical work!”
—Curtis Martin, Founder and President, Fellowship of Catholic University Students (FOCUS)

“What I love about this book is its blend of intelligence and heart. It marshals the best that the Church has to offer in the way of Scripture and theology, while integrating this seamlessly with the emotional and psychological features of marriage.”
—Helen Alvaré, Professor, George Mason University of Law

“This is a work that will be a treasure for not only the couples preparing for marriage, but for the priests, deacons, religious, and parish lay leaders who minister to them.”
—Deacon Kevin McCormack, Principal of Xaverian Catholic High School in Brooklyn, New York and radio co-host of “Religion on the Line”