The National Conference of Catholic Bishops estimates that 40 percent of American Catholics now enter interreligious marriages. This Catholic Update "reminds the whole Catholic community of the vital role interchurch couples can play in the working toward full unity of those whose common bond is Jesus Christ." Barkley includes eight "pointers for success" to help interchurch marriages succeed, including: Start your marriage with a wedding that fits you. Be respectful, but it's your marriage. Don't let the nonessentials blur your vision. Get to know and respect your spouse's faith. Find a worship pattern that fits your faith, your family. Take religious education of children seriously. Pray together as a family in your home. Don't stop talking Barkley concludes: "When respecting each other's traditions and sharing that respect with their children, couples lay the foundation for the reconciliation of Churches."