Can a divorced, non-Catholic ever marry in a Catholic Church?

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Hello, I was married in a United Methodist ceremony. That marraige ended in divorce. I have met another woman who would like, if possible, to get married in a Catholic Church. She is Catholic, but I am not. Is this a possibility?

Thanks

-- Curious (cwkjr@box.com), April 13, 2004

Answers

Hi Curious,

Welcome to the forum. We have some resident experts on this issue that I am sure will answer your question to the letter. I will give it a shot. I am assuming that your female friend is free to marry (no divorces or seperations).

The Church recognizes protestant marriages as valid until proven otherwise. You would be best served by speaking to a Catholic priest as you will likely need to go through an annulment procedure. It may be a simple investigation but it will be required.

If the divorce issue has been cleared up (understand that an investigation may not find in your favor) then you will need to go through premarital classes so that you understand what is expected of you. You don't need to convert (I did this week) but you do need to understand this young ladies faith and its requirements.

Until these issues are resolved you must understand that this Catholic woman is not your wife and is not to be treated as such.

I have been married to a Catholic for 13 years and I just converted (hardheaded) this week. This woman may be heaven sent and if you are patient and respect her and her faith you may profit with God's grace. I know I have.

Best wishes to you. (

-- David F (notanaddress@nowhere.com), April 13, 2004.


Short answer. Possibly yes, possibly no.

It all depends on your (and her) current marital status. If both of you turn out to NOT be married, as the Catholic church identifies marriage, then probably yes. Marital bliss can be yours. If otherwise, then no and according to the Catholic church, you are called to a life of chaste celibacy (also blissful when accepted gracefully.)

Good luck!

-- Pat Delaney (pat@patdelaney.net), April 14, 2004.


Curious, If you both are free to marry together, that's great! No pessimism there.

If not, your wish if implemented will separate this woman you claim to love from her God, her Ffaith, and quite possibly eternal life in heaven. Thats the way it is.

-- Pat Delaney (pat@patdelaney.net), April 14, 2004.


The second post placed by "Curious" was placed by an imposter and so, has been removed.

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