From This Day Forward

'To ponder the words of scripture and liturgy contained in the marriage service quietly and intelligently before the actual ceremony is of great value on the wedding day and of greater value in the days that follow. This brief document offers such a valuable opportunity, and is particularly to be commended for the inclusion of some prayers which speak to the difficulties that the application of these marriage vows brings in its train. Marriage is the most fundamental of all human relationships. To throw light on its importance, its difficulties and above all its benefits is very much worthwhile, especially at a time when the very institution of marriage is being denigrated, and its unique significance widely questioned. This author has no hesitation in offering the good news of Christian marriage as the peak of human experience. Hence the substance of the primer is good advice whereby those who enter the life of marriage may prove the good news which the ceremony that it initiates it proclaims.' From the Introduction by Donald Soper.