[perfectangel]

I've often wondered about this and since it may become an issue for me in the future, I decided to ask. I am Jewish by birth however I do not practice. My boyfriend is Catholic. He says that in order for us to marry in the catholic church I would have to convert. I am not interested in conversion to any religion. My question is, is this true, or are there other ways to be married in a catholic church? I've heard some people say I would only have to be baptized and others say that I would have to raise my children catholic (does this apply to children from a previous relationship (unmarried). What exactly would the rules be or the requirements for me?

LISA

[Deacon Bob]

The Catholic church will not require you to convert in order to have a Catholic ceremony. Prior to 1966 there were strict penalties imposed on Catholics who married outside the church. These penalties have been removed.

However, normally and in the strictist sense when a non Catholic partner is refered to it is normally a Christian non Catholic. However, it is not unheard of for a Catholic to marry a Jewish partner in the church. I would check with the local parish to see what the policies are in your area.

When a Catholic marries a non Catholic the Catholic partner is required to promise to raise the couples childern in the Catholic faith. The non Catholic partner does not have to make such a promise but must be aware of the promise made by the Catholic partner. Therefore, your children from another relationship would not be effected. Now in the Catholic faith Marriage is typically a Sacrament. The primary ministers of this Sacrament would be the couple themselves. If a Catholic is marrying a non Catholic it would not be a Sacrament but a blessing.

I hope this helps provide some guidance. God Bless.

[startingover]

Although you need not convert to Catholicism, it would be advisible for the two of you to talk with a priest if you decide to marry in the Catholic Church. There are issues in any interfaith marriage that need serious discussion so there are no misunderstandings later. Since your boyfriend seems a bit unclear on Church policy, a heart-to-heart talk with a sympathetic and knowledgeable priest would benefit you both. Should you decide to take the path of lifelong marriage, the Catholic Church has excellent pre-marriage programs to help ready you for this most important step. May God bless and guide you.