“By which a man and a woman establish between themselves a partnership of the whole of life” so that “they are no longer two, therefore, but one flesh” (acc. Matt 19:6), thus forming a community of life and love. It is achieved through conjugal union which they give to and receive from each other, with the free, irrevocable consent of both parties.

Its purpose is the good of the couple and the generation and good of children. It is also a demonstration of Christ’s love for the Church.

(acc. Catechism of the Catholic Church and the rite of Marriage)