The aim of this text is to identify the most important issues concerning marriage and its purposes in the Orthodox and Catholic traditions. It is important to think these issues over again, in order to, on the one hand, recognize the signs of the times and open to other Christians, and on the other hand, stand firmly by the values which are good and need protection. The value of marriage stems from its supernatural character, which is realized, inter alia, in the form of a sacrament, covenant, corporal unity, and communion of persons. In many points, the theological vision of marriage and the family is shared by both traditions, while the differences that have only been signaled in the paper may contribute to the ecumenical dialogue.