What is World Marriage Day (WMD)?

World Marriage Day honors husband and wife as head of the family; the basic unit of society. It salutes the beauty of their faithfulness, sacrifice and joy in daily married life.

The idea of celebrating marriage began in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, in 1981 when a group of couples decided to encourage their mayor, bishop and governor to proclaim St. Valentine's Day as "We Believe in Marriage Day". The event was so successful, the idea spread to other communities.

By 1982, 43 governors officially proclaimed the day and celebrations spread to U. S. Military bases in several foreign countries. In 1983, the name was changed to "World Marriage Day", designated to be each year on the second Sunday in February, and emphasis was placed on interfaith participation. World Marriage Day celebrations continue to grow and spread to more countries and faith expressions every year.

Click here to go to the national WWME World Marriage Day site.

Statement of Purpose

World Marriage Day honors the lifelong commitment of husband and wife as head of the family, the basic unit of society. It salutes the beauty of couple's fidelity, sacrifice, and joy in daily married life. The day elevates public awareness of the positive aspects of marriage.

World Marriage Day Symbol

The World Marriage Day symbol speaks readily of the role and values of marriage. A couple, seen symbolically as two candle-like figures, reminds us that married love calls us to help enlighten the world. The couple is joined by a heart, focusing on love as the power that fosters unity within the couple and generates the capacity to be life-giving and inspire others to fruitfulness and unity.