Courtship is a truthful, prayerful discernment of whether two people can enter Christian marriage; it is not a private imitation of marriage before the covenant exists. It needs freedom, mutual respect, chastity, clear intention, wise counsel, and enough time for character to become visible.
What the Church teaches
Affection is a gift, but it does not by itself establish readiness, compatibility, or a covenant. A healthy courtship allows both people to speak freely about faith, worship, family, money, work, children, health, conflict, and expectations. Physical and digital boundaries protect clarity and dignity. Family wisdom and the counsel of a priest matter greatly, while the marriage itself must still rest on the free consent of both persons.
Live it this week
Before making or accepting a serious commitment, agree on the purpose and boundaries of the relationship. Meet one another’s families and Church communities, seek premarital guidance early, and observe how each person handles prayer, disappointment, money, responsibility, and people from whom they need nothing.
When personal guidance matters
Jealous control, threats, humiliation, sexual pressure, surveillance, and isolation are not signs of serious love. Neither family preference nor religious language cancels free consent. If there is coercion or violence, prioritize safety, involve a trusted person outside the relationship, and use appropriate Church and civil protections.
Sibhat prepared this original answer from the sources listed above. For personal or sacramental guidance, speak with your parish priest.