"Getting the Marriage Conversation Right" discusses the breakdown in the culture of marriage and the importance of building it back up. It also covers frequently asked questions about marriage, commenting on topics such as homosexual adoption, claims of discrimination, effects of freedom of consciences and the relationship between civil and religious marriage.
In addition, the book delves into the fundamental right of children to know and be cared for by their fathers and mothers, as much as possible.
May pointed to the natural human interest in one's ancestors, as well as the way that adopted individuals often feel a desire to search for their biological parents.
"We have a desire for connection," he explained. "It's part of our identity. It's part of who we are."
He also noted that redefining marriage comes with dire consequences because it removes the most basic institution that safeguards children.
Promoting marriage for the sake of children is important, he explained, observing that both liberal and conservative think tanks recognize marriage as a key way of "dealing with the root causes of poverty and fatherless homes."
However, this becomes impossible once marriage is redefined, he said, because the institution loses its connection to children, and initiatives to promote fathers as being important and necessary become viewed as discrimination under the law.
In Massachusetts, kindergarten students now read books telling them that marriage is not about the family, he noted.
May suggested that his new book can be used as a practical guide to dialogue about marriage and can be helpful for parents, priests and Catholic school teachers to explain marriage to children.
It fosters "reality-based thinking" and helps marriage advocates act on the offensive, rather than being constantly on the defensive, he said.
Ultimately, there is a need to develop programs and curricula encouraging young people to get married before having children, he said. No one wants their children to grow up to be single parents, but society does not encourage strong and healthy marriages.
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The push to restore marriage "starts around the family dinner table," he emphasized.
Michelle La Rosa is deputy editor-in-chief of Catholic News Agency. She has worked for CNA since 2011. She studied political philosophy and journalism at the University of Dallas.