Marriage vs singleness- which is better?

[AgileGreenSeal]

I often observe that marriage is very favourably looked upon in Christian churches, however single people can be viewed as sort of “out of place” or “less than”.

This strikes me as odd given Paul’s glowing recommendation of singleness in 1 Corinthians 7.

Thoughts, anyone?

It varies across denominations. I'm Catholic, and we view celibacy for the sake of the kingdom (priests, religious, consecrated lay people) very positively. But when it's deliberately chosen for God's sake, which is different from involuntary singleness or singleness chosen for other reasons. We also view marriage very highly, it's a question of what state the individual is called to.

However the individual feels called by God, is 'better'. Single or married, avoid sexual immorality is the overall message.

We are all equal in the sight of God. It's good to celebrate marriage and anniversaries. Single people have less to celebrate unless they actually take holy orders.