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AnnulmentCatholics who have been previously married and who have obtained a civil divorce may wish to pursue a declaration of nullity in order to return to full communion with the Church. We encourage you to contact us so that we may help you to understand the truth of Church teaching and how that relates to your individual situation.
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What is an annulment?
The word “annulment” is often used to refer to a Catholic “declaration of nullity.” Actually, nothing is made null through the process. Rather, a Church tribunal (a Catholic Church court) declares that a marriage thought to be valid according to Church law actually fell short of at least one of the essential elements required for a binding union. For a Catholic marriage to be valid, it is required that: (1) the spouses are free to marry; (2) they are capable of giving their consent to marry; (3) they freely exchange their consent; (4) in consenting to marry, they have the intention to marry for life, to be faithful to one another, and be open to children; (5) they intend the good of each other; and (6) their consent is given in the presence of two witnesses and before a properly authorized Church minister. Exceptions to the last requirement must be approved by Church authority. For more on annulment, visit the USCCB website here. Unfortunately, there is much confusion and misinformation regarding the Church's teaching on Divorce/Annulment. We invite you to contact our parish advocate at the number below to get accurate information and to discuss your specific situation. All calls are strictly confidential. |
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