SACRAMENTAL GUM-BALLS

A priest said, “Couples who live together without the benefit of the sacrament of marriage live in sin.  They will find nothing but shame and grief from this.” 

The Gadfly said, “The church does not have the power to confer honor upon a couple’s relationship. Those who lack respect and commitment in living together will not gain such blessings from a sacrament.   For the waving of a cross cannot transform a bad relationship into a good marriage.  Holiness cannot be dispensed from the church like gum-balls for a quarter.  And chewing gumballs is no substitute for character and integrity.  Living together does not guarantee shame any more than marriage guarantees honor.”