A reading from the Book of Sirach
Blessed the husband of a good wife, twice-lengthened are his days;
A worthy wife brings joy to her husband, peaceful and full is his life.
A good wife is a generous gift bestowed upon him who fears the Lord;
Be he rich or poor, his heart is content, and a smile is ever on his face.
A gracious wife delights her husband, her thoughtfulness puts flesh on his bones;
A gift from the Lord is her governed speech, and her firm virtue is of surpassing worth.
Choicest of blessings is a modest wife, priceless her chaste soul.
Like the sun rising in the Lord’s heavens, the beauty of a virtuous wife is the radiance of her home.
The word of the Lord.
[All respond: Thanks be to God.]
Sacrament of Marriage
Old Testament B-8
Sirach 26: 1-4, 13-16