THE ANNULMENT PROCESS: NOT A “CATHOLIC DIVORCE”

One of the ministries funded by the Annual Catholic Appeal is The Archdiocesan Tribunal. While the Tribunal has numerous canonical functions, the most well known is that of annulments.

As you know, Our Lord had harsh words for divorce. One cultural context to remember is that Jewish men could put away their wives for any reason simply by writing a bill of divorce, handing it to her, and saying “I divorce thee” three times. Women could not divorce their husbands. Divorced women were often reduced to dire poverty and/or begging or prostitution.

The Church continues to teach that marriage is for life. The expectation is that the man and woman will love and honor each other all the days of their life. Death alone can break the bonds of marriage. However, the annulment process asks the question, “was this union a valid, sacramental marriage?’ The marriage’s civil legality is presumed. It is the sacramental nature of the union that is placed under scrutiny. Testimony is collected (by writing) and the evidence is weighed by the Tribunal. Interestingly, there is an advocate appointed to defend the bond; to argue, if possible, that the union was truly sacramental. If the evidence reveals that the marriage was never truly sacramental, an annulment is granted and the couple becomes free to marry in the Church. If the annulment is not granted, another Church wedding may not take place.

Generally, if the Tribunal accepts a case for consideration, the chances of an annulment being granted are very high.

If you are a Catholic who has suffered a divorce, please seek an annulment. As a pastor, my concern is that Catholics not drift away from their faith because they presume their divorce means they are not welcomed in the church. You are welcomed and we want you to continue practicing your faith.