In keeping with the spirit of the Second Vatican Council, the Revised Code continues the emphasis on the simpler and the more pastorally-oriented celebration of the sacraments, with all having an active part. The Council emphasised the need for education and preparation of the faithful for the reception of the sacraments. The Revised Code urges bishops and the bishops' conferences to encourage this preparation and to provide materials and guidelines for it. Examples are the greater involvement of the parents in their children's Baptism and the first reception of Communion. Great emphasis is placed on preparation for marriage as distinct from preparation for a wedding.
Marriage is understood as a partnership of the whole life of a man and a woman.
There is a change in the evaluation of the very essence of marriage. Emphasis is placed on the whole person and not just the reproductive functions. The object of marriage is mutual self-giving and not just merely the right to intercourse. The Church has not changed its teaching on the indissolubility of the sacramental marriage. The revised law reflects the Church's deeper understanding of what marriage is in all its dimensions.