Can I be a Catholic?

[HighwayRanger]

Hello, I’m looking for an answer to a question, but haven’t been able to consult a priest yet.

My wife and I are both on our second marriage. I’m a new Christian, and feel that I’m being called to the Catholic church. She is not on board yet.

My question is: Is the fact that I’m divorced and remarried going to be a roadblock for me to enter the church fully?

Thanks,

Roy

 

[Scoobyshme]

Hello, I’m looking for an answer to a question, but haven’t been able to consult a priest yet.

My wife and I are both on our second marriage. I’m a new Christian, and feel that I’m being called to the Catholic church. She is not on board yet.

My question is: Is the fact that I’m divorced and remarried going to be a roadblock for me to enter the church fully?

Thanks,

Roy

Hey, Roy!

Well, there’s more info to be had before an answer can be given. Did you get married in a church somewhere? Were both of you baptized, etc.? Did you get an annulment from the first marriage? Those are just starters. You need to talk to a priest.

God bless!

 

[HighwayRanger]

Scooby, I was baptized as a toddler (Presbyterian.) Still have to find out about the wife. I was previously married in a church, she was not.

We were then married by a pastor outside of a church.

My ex will likely not cooperate with an annulment, if that is required.

I’m sure hope there are no impediments for me to join the Catholic church!

Roy

 

[musicality]

My ex will likely not cooperate with an annulment, if that is required.

Someone correct me if I’m incorrect, but I don’t believe you need spousal approval for an annulment.

Also, if an annulment is not possible, your marriage could not be blessed in the Church–this would require you and your wife to live as brother and sister.

My advice is to talk to a knowledgeable priest in your area! I’m sure that they’d be more than willing to discuss RCIA with you. Also, I would suggest going through the RCIA program at a local parish as soon as possible to get the ball rolling–there is no commitment for going through the program!

 

[Scoobyshme]

Scooby, I was baptized as a toddler (Presbyterian.) Still have to find out about the wife. I was previously married in a church, she was not.

We were then married by a pastor outside of a church.

My ex will likely not cooperate with an annulment, if that is required.

I’m sure hope there are no impediments for me to join the Catholic church!

Roy

Roy,

Sounds like you’re going to need an annulment. And your spouse is NOT required to cooperate. In fact, in some cases that may help. (Shows immaturity on her part.)

Annulments are usually grated for one of two general reasons: 1) lack of sufficient, informed consent to the Sacrament. and/or 2) inability of either/both parties to live a Sacramental married life.

Examples: 1) She was pregnant and they felt “forced” in any way to get married to “do the right thing.” Or, all their friends were getting married and they thought they should, too. Or, they thought they’d “try it out” (meaning, marriage) vs. going into it with the notion that it was a lifelong thing, for better or worse, etc.

2)  He was a druggie.  Or, she was an alcoholic.  Or, he was mentally unstable.  Or, she never wanted to have kids.  (this one's a slam dunk)  Or, he or she were too immature to make such a lifelong decision at the time.

These are just some examples.

Anyway, the thing to do is talk to the priest.  He should be happy to help you out.  :)

God bless!

 

[HighwayRanger]

Thanks, Scooby.

Wish me luck and send a few prayers my way!

Roy

 

[Scoobyshme]

Thanks, Scooby.

Wish me luck and send a few prayers my way!

Roy

You got it, Roy!

 

[Catholic1954]

Thanks, Scooby.

Wish me luck and send a few prayers my way!

Roy

Welcome Home and Good Luck! You need to talk to a priest right away. He will be in the best position to guide you into the Church and get your annulment process started. It will likely take some time to sort everything out, but be patient, the one, true Church is well worth the wait and hassel!!