A marriage that is valid...but not sacramental.

I found it takes a while to wrap your head around this.

At a happy gathering for a diocese-sponsored marriage and family life workshop on a recent Saturday, I encountered some of the good people who are on the front lines: devoted Catholic laity who have served in their parishes for years, supporting the many people who make up the community, along with the clergy. On this particular Saturday several veteran deacons were also present. The energy in the room was good throughout the day, and people were interested and engaged.