Pope Francis, the Year of Mercy, and New Standards for Annulments in the Catholic Church (Part 4)

01-24-2016Weekly ReflectionDeacon John D’Amico

Why does the Catholic Church require an intended spouse, who is divorced but not Catholic, to obtain an annulment before marrying in the Catholic Church?
The Catholic Church respects marriage between one man and one woman and presumes that they are valid even if the marriage was performed at a Las Vegas drive-through chapel. Thus, for example, it considers the marriages of two Protestant, Jewish, or even nonbelieving persons to be binding for life. The Church requires a declaration of nullity to establish that an essential element was missing in that previous union preventing it from being a valid marriage.

This is often a difficult and emotional issue. If the intended spouse comes from a faith tradition that accepts divorce and remarriage, it may be hard for them to understand why they must go through the Catholic tribunal process. Couples in this situation may find it helpful to talk with a priest or deacon. To go through the process can be a sign of great love of the non-Catholic for their intended spouse.

My fiancé and I want to marry in the Catholic Church. He has been married before and has applied for an annulment. When can we set a date for our wedding?
You should not set a date until the annulment has been finalized. First, his petition may not be granted. Second, even if the petition is eventually granted, there may be unexpected delays in the process. Many pastors will not allow the couple to set a date until the petition is officially approved.

How much does it cost?
At the urging of Pope Francis, the Diocese of Phoenix no longer charges fees to process annulment cases. Costs were seen as discouraging people from beginning the process to have their cases heard and resolved.

How do I start the process?
Fr. Bing or Deacon John can provide the information needed to get started. The best way to reach them is through their email on the parish web site.

Deacon John D’Amico

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