Let the Church pray for them, encourage them and show herself a merciful mother, and thus sustain them in faith and hope.”
Pope John Paul II, Familiaris Consortio, 84
Divorce and separation are complex and sensitive issues that affect many families. The Catholic Church recognizes that there are situations where separation of spouses may become necessary. While the Church upholds the values of the marital covenant, she approaches these situations with compassion, seeking to provide pastoral care to families who experience the pain of separation and divorce.
The Sanctity of Marriage
The Catholic Church views marriage as a sacred covenant, a lifelong commitment between a man and a woman, reflecting Christ’s love for His Church. Marriage is not just a contract but a sacrament, imparting grace to the couple and helping them grow in holiness.
Causes of Divorce and Separation
Various factors contribute to marital breakdowns, including infidelity, financial stress, and lack of communication. The Church acknowledges these challenges and encourages couples to seek help early.
The National Catholic Reporter notes that around 28% of Catholic marriages end in divorce, compared to approximately 40-50% in the general U.S. population. Common reasons cited for divorce among Catholics include infidelity (55%), substance abuse (45%), and financial problems (40%).
Annulments and Church Teachings
It’s important to note that annulment is different from divorce. An annulment declares that a valid marriage never existed, while divorce presumes the existence of a valid marriage that is then dissolved. The Catholic Church teaches that a valid marriage arises from the free, lifelong, and sacramental covenant between a man and woman, which is ordered towards their good and the procreation of children. This bond established by God is indissoluble. The annulment process examines whether the marriage met the criteria for sacramentality at the time of the wedding. The Church upholds the indissolubility of marriage and does not recognize divorce but allows for annulment in certain cases where an essential element of marriage was lacking from the beginning.
Did you know that in 2019, the Vatican reported that approximately 49,000 marriage annulments were granted worldwide? The United States accounts for about 55-70% of all annulments granted annually.
For more information on Annulments, visit the Tribunal page here.
Pastoral Care and Support
There are numerous resources available for those struggling in their marriages or experiencing divorce or separation, including counseling, retreats, and support groups. Seeking help and guidance early, before a marital crisis develops, is essential for maintaining and restoring healthy relationships.
Parish Support Groups
Annunciation, Altamonte Springs
Carla Caguin
407-869-9472
Holy Name of Jesus, Indialantic
Karin Alcock
321-773-2783 ext. 134
St. Margaret Mary, Winter Park
Lori Reinneck
407-645-0284
Our Lady of Lourdes, Daytona Beach
Darren Nash
301-515-1717