ABSTRACT
This chapter highlights research findings and theory showing the risks and resources that religion and spirituality represent in the lives of couples seeking to enhance their relationships through couple therapy or enrichment. It introduces several overlapping concepts to guide practitioners in their work with couples who themselves find value in spirituality and/or religious beliefs and practices. Sanctification is associated with greater collaborative actions among couples, including acts of protection and sacrifice on behalf of the relationship, which enable more transcendent experiences as a couple. Sanctification provides a buffer against potential demands and stress in couple relationships. The religious and spiritual influences in a couple's relationship present important areas of resource and risk when navigating the commitments made in intimate relationships. Spiritual and religious practices that are shared by partners offer unique assets that are associated with positive psychological outcomes and greater relational resilience.
