My thoughts turn to families in our own diocese who have welcomed the birth of a child during this past year and to those who are expecting a baby in the near future – Bishop Kevin Doran.

Marriage and families are today experiencing new and more complex challenges than ever before, says ACCORD executive Harry Casey.

“Being married seems to add an extra layer of commitment and stability to a relationship,” said Professor Patricia Casey.

Children will be aware of tensions between parents but "it’s better not to have rancorous and fractious conflict in front of them because they’ll be upset by it".

“In a way, thank God the Catholic church does say we won’t allow it, because otherwise nobody’s saying that it’s a sin.”

Catholic family support groups in dioceses and parishes might not only assist with marriage preparation, but also with supporting couples immediately following marriage.

"By destabilising marriage we are rapidly eroding the social structure on which humanity depends" warns Dr Michael Neary of Tuam.

Marriage Counsellor warns couples not to put themselves under pressure to provide the perfect family, the perfect Christmas and perfect presents.

The canonisation of married couple Blessed Louis and Zèile Martin, parents of St Thérèse of Lisieux, is the first in the history of the Church.

Women's Aid, which works to combat domestic violence, appeals to young women to know the difference between 'safe' and 'sinister' on Valentine's Day.

Pure in Heart hosts presentation to adolescents on healthy attitudes to love and relationships.

New programme will compliment the existing Irish vocations programme ‘ExploreAway’ which some people are not ready for.

‘The Simplest Prayer’ includes practical advice on meditation and simple reflections for times of anxiety, weak faith, troubled conscience and letting go.

Couples are reminded that marriage is “a demanding journey, at times difficult, and at times turbulent”.