is impossible to understand either the New Testament doctrine on

marriage, or the very consistent practice of the Orthodox Church without

seeing Christian marriage in the context of the Eucharist ... The very

notion of marriage as a sacrament presupposed that a man is not only a

being with physiological, psychological, and social functions, but that

he is a citizen of God's Kingdom, i.e., that his entire life and

especially its most decisive moments involve eternal values and God

Himself. -- John Meyendorff, from the book

excellent study on Christian marriage is a valuable resource for anyone

seeking to understand the Orthodox perspective on marriage. John

Meyendorff examines marriage in the Church from the contexts of Judaism

and the New Testament, the early Church and Roman law, sacramental life,

and contemporary society. Specific issues discussed include: second

marriages, "mixed" marriages, divorce, abortion, family planning and

responsible parenthood, married clergy, celibacy, and the monastic life.

Essential reading for all pastors, it is also useful for parents,

newlyweds and those preparing or the sacrament of marriage.