Public exchange of vows is an essential part of the Sacrament of Matrimony. The Church calls the exchange of vows consent—that is, the act of will by which a man and a woman give themselves to each other, and accept the gift of the other. The marriage can’t happen without this declaration, or vow of consent.

In Matrimony, man and woman are called to the love and union of spouses that reflects the life of the Trinity. The vows are a public proclamation of the unconditional lifelong love that a husband and wife vow to each other, and reflect the love of Christ for his Church.

Learn more about sacramental marriage at realtrue.org