Many Christian denominations recognize the sanctity of a lasting, monogamous marriage. Against that backdrop, the Diocese of Phoenix is closing its celebration of National Marriage Week.

“It’s National Marriage Week! Join us in praying for all married couples,” the Diocese posted on Facebook before the week started. 

The diocese posted a prayer that asks God for blessings that married couples renew their marriage covenant and strengthen their bond of peace with each other and their families.

National Marriage Week is celebrated Feb. 7-14 this year, so that it encompassed World Marriage Day, celebrated annually on Feb. 13. 

The celebration provides “an opportunity to focus on building a culture of life and love that begins with supporting and promoting marriage and the family.” The U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops says. This year’s theme is “Called to the Joy of Love.”

The week’s events included live-streamed events that people could view on the For Your Marriage Facebook page, the bishops’ group said.

Catholics view the sacrament of marriage as “a sacred covenant between husband and wife, signifying a permanent union of love,” the bishops' group said.