Discerning Marriage through Dating and Courting

• Elizabeth Busby, co-director of programs for the Theology of the Body Institute, is discussing the differences between dating and courting and their implications for marriage discernment.

• The distinction between dating and courting has become semantic, and both terms are often used interchangeably, even among holy couples.

• Historically, courting involved family involvement, with the couple spending time together in a group setting, and was focused on marriage.

• The rise of the automobile in the post-World War I era led to the development of modern dating, where couples could spend time alone, away from family and community.

• Modern dating has lost its focus on marriage and often becomes a casual, recreational activity, with many people expecting sex on the first date.

• To have a successful discernment of marriage, it is essential to be intentional and have a clear understanding of what dating and courting mean.

• Three guideposts for discernment of marriage are: being ready to get married, spending time with other people, and practicing chastity.

• Being ready to get married means being committed to the goal of marriage and being prepared to make a lifelong commitment.

• Spending time with other people helps to see the person you're with interacting with others, including family, and can reveal potential issues.

• Practicing chastity means integrating one's sexuality within oneself, and it is not just about abstinence, but about self-control and the ability to give of oneself in non-sexual ways.

• Chastity is essential for upholding dignity and maintaining healthy boundaries in a relationship.

• Whether you call it dating or courting, it is crucial to have a commitment-oriented posture and move towards marriage with intentionality.

• Intentionality, commitment, and chastity are key principles for a successful discernment of marriage.

• The Theology of the Body Institute provides resources and guidance for those seeking to discern their vocation and build healthy relationships.

Learn the differences between dating and courting, and how they impact marriage discernment. Understand the importance of intentionality, commitment, and chastity in building healthy relationships. Discover how to navigate the complexities of modern dating and courting to achieve a successful marriage.