Summary of "Why Is There No Marriage in Heaven?"
Podcast: The Fr. Mike Schmitz Catholic Podcast
Host: Fr. Mike Schmitz
Produced by: Ascension
Release Date: July 3, 2025
Introduction
In the episode titled "Why Is There No Marriage in Heaven?", Fr. Mike Schmitz delves into a profound theological discussion prompted by a personal conversation he had with a long-married man grappling with the Church's teachings on marriage in the afterlife. This episode explores the nature of love, the purpose of marriage, and the eternal state of human relationships in heaven.
The Initial Concern: Marriage in Heaven
Fr. Mike begins by recounting a conversation with a man who expressed deep distress over the Church's teaching that marriage does not continue in heaven. The man stated:
"In heaven there would be no marriage. I love my wife so much and if there's any teaching in the church, any teaching of scripture, any teaching of Jesus that I just, just grates and grinds my gears, is this teaching that in heaven I don't get to be married to my wife forever?"
[00:30]
This poignant expression highlighted a common misconception and emotional struggle regarding eternal relationships.
Fr. Mike's Reflections on Eternal Love
Fr. Mike reflects on the man's sentiment, marveling at the depth of his love and the pain caused by the perceived absence of marriage in heaven. He observes:
"Imagine loving someone so much that you're like, I've already been married to them for 30 plus years... That wouldn't be enough for me. That's awesome."
[02:15]
He emphasizes the transcendent nature of love that believers aspire to, suggesting that heaven offers an amplification rather than a diminution of earthly bonds.
Understanding the Teaching: Marriage in Heaven
Addressing the core teaching, Fr. Mike examines Jesus' statement that "in heaven there is neither marriage nor giving in marriage." He interprets this not as the annihilation of marital bonds but as a transformation of their nature:
"I don't think that this means that if you are married on earth, that your spouse is just another one of the random people in heaven... God reveals that in heaven, there is not less, there's more."
[04:50]
He argues that God's plans for the afterlife transcend human understanding, assuring believers that the sanctity and depth of marital love are preserved and even elevated in eternity.
The Nature of Love in Heaven
Fr. Mike elaborates on the unique and infinite love that God bestows upon each individual, making additional love in heaven both natural and profound:
"God loves every one of us infinitely, but he also loves every one of us infinitely, uniquely."
[06:30]
He posits that this infinite and unique love ensures that relationships in heaven, including marital bonds, will be more meaningful and deeply fulfilling than those on earth.
The Purpose of Marriage
Delving into the theological purpose of marriage, Fr. Mike outlines its dual roles:
-
Procreation and Education of Children:
"The primary purpose of marriage is the procreation and education of children... to raise up that life in a way that those kids become saints."
[09:10] -
Spiritual Growth of Spouses:
"Marriage is for the good of the spouses, so that you help each other get to heaven."
[10:00]
He likens marriage to a vehicle that facilitates spiritual growth and sanctification, preparing individuals for their eternal destiny.
Marriage as a Spiritual Journey
Using metaphors, Fr. Mike illustrates marriage as a means to an end rather than the end itself:
"If marriage is the bus, get off the bus because you're there."
[11:25]
This analogy underscores that while marriage is instrumental in guiding individuals towards heaven, the eternal state surpasses earthly institutions and relationships.
Reassurance of Eternal Connection
Addressing fears about losing connection with one's spouse in heaven, Fr. Mike reassures listeners:
"Heaven is always more not less... if you love your wife that much on earth how much more will you love her in heaven?"
[13:40]
He emphasizes that the absence of marriage does not equate to a loss of bond but rather an elevation of love beyond earthly constraints.
Conclusion
Fr. Mike concludes by encouraging listeners to cherish and glorify their earthly marriages, recognizing them as sanctified unions that prepare and purify individuals for their ultimate union with God. He reaffirms that heaven promises a state of existence where love is perfected, and relationships are enriched beyond human comprehension.
Notable Quotes
-
On Eternal Love:
"Heaven is always more not less."
[12:05] -
On the Nature of God's Love:
"God loves every one of us infinitely, but he also loves every one of us infinitely, uniquely."
[06:30] -
On Marriage as a Spiritual Vehicle:
"Marriage is like a vehicle that gets you to your destination."
[09:45]
Final Thoughts
This episode offers a comforting and theologically rich perspective on a topic that often causes confusion and distress among believers. Fr. Mike Schmitz effectively bridges scriptural teachings with relatable analogies, providing listeners with a deeper understanding of the sanctity of marriage and the glory of eternal love in heaven.