(also called "covenantal marriage") the belief that marriage is a covenant (promise) intended and ordained by God (Proverbs 2:16-17; Malachi 2:14-16) to be a lifelong relationship between a man and a woman that is accomplished by vowing to God, each other, their families, and their community. It is a legally binding contract promising to remain steadfast in unconditional love, reconciled, and sexual pure, while purposefully growing in their marital relationship. The value of a "covenant marriage relationship" as opposed to a "contractual marriage agreement" lies in a person's understanding and acceptance of God's intent for marriage and the importance of His presence in the marriage. De facto Marriage -- (derived from a Latin expression that means "in fact" or "in practice.") Very similar to "common law." Meaning: people who live together without being legally married