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married again, annulment required?

teresheart
New User

Post #1 of 4 (1414 views)

married again, annulment required?

My present husband is a baptized Catholic and was married in a civil ceremony but has since obtained a divorce. He has been advised by one priest that he needs an annulment and by another that he does not. Which is it?
I am a baptized Catholic. In my youth I married and divorced. I eventually obtained an annulment of that marriage. However, prior to receiving that annulment, I re-married a Lutheran man in the United Church. A few months following the marriage we got a divorce on the grounds of adultery (husband). Do I require an annulment of this marriage?
Thank you kindly for your attention.

(This post was edited by the_admin on Jul 25, 2008, 8:40 PM)

startingover
MARRIAGE PREPARATION ADVISORS

Post #2 of 4 (1407 views)

Re: [teresheart] married again, annulment required? [In reply to]

If we understand your post correctly, you are in your third marriage. You obtained an annulment from your first but not your second marriage. Your present husband has not received an annulment from his first marriage.

According to Church canon law, you both will need to complete the shortened annulment form known as the "defect of form" because you both married outside the Church even though you were baptized Catholics. Your current marriage will most likely need convalidation in order for the Church to consider it sacramental and binding.

Please consider some quality Christian counseling to help you heal from the wounds of your previous marriages and encourage you in your faith.
Kay and Dennis Flowers
Authors of
Catholic Annulment, Spiritual Healing

teresheart
New User

Post #3 of 4 (1403 views)

Re: [startingover] married again, annulment required? [In reply to]

Thank you so much for the information.
I have attended with a spiritual director since the failing of my marriage.
Is there a way to obtain short form annulment applications on line?

startingover
MARRIAGE PREPARATION ADVISORS

Post #4 of 4 (1399 views)

Re: [teresheart] married again, annulment required? [In reply to]

Neither the long nor the short form of annulment is meant to be completed without the help of someone trained in the process. Also, because the forms may differ from diocese to diocese, it's best to contact your local priest.

It was wise to seek spiritual advice after your divorce. Good for you! May God use the pain from your past to make you a better and stronger person.
Kay and Dennis Flowers
Authors of
Catholic Annulment, Spiritual Healing