Catholic and Non-Catholic Marriage Conflict

[Kensho]

I also know several people who married non-Catholics with the agreement to raise the children in the Catholic Church. That is, until actual children came along. Then the non-Catholic changed their mind and refused to let the children be baptized, go to Mass, etc. I have seen this really turn into a bad situation. People say a lot of things in the abstract. But when the real situation comes into play, I think it is different. I don’t think these people intended to be deceptive, but their own emotions took hold when they became a parent, the importance of their own faith and the realization of what they had promised and what that really meant came to the forefront.

I don’t disagree with you at all, but I think discussing how potential offspring will be raised is the lowest bar a Catholic should set.

You reminded me, we must also consider with compassion how the non-Catholic spouse would feel in that situation.

 

[RoseMary131]

Thank you for your response. Many have said, “I don’t recommend entering into a mixed marriage.” My problem lies in that I am already deeply in love with this man, and can see myself with him for the rest of my life. It’s not an easy situation to walk away from. I have two very strong emotions pulling me in different directions.

When my husband and I married he was a Protestant, who hadn’t attended church much.

I really didn’t realize how important having a Catholic spouse would be in a family.

The Deacon who held our marriage prep classes said, “Maybe one day you can practice the faith together.” I remember driving away from class, giggling, and saying that would never be. It never even crossed my mind that it would be something important.

Silly me.

Every weekend my sweet husband took me to Mass. I taught 5th grade CCD classes which was on the Sacraments and wanted to be prepared for class, so I practice the lessons with my husband. Never thinking he was learning.

One day, my husband comes home from a long training in the Arctic and says “I want to join the Church” and he did.

My husband totally embraced all the Church teachings.

Once we had children, I realize how immature my idea of not both believing the same thing
would be in a family setting. How would Mama explain the Eucharist and Confession to children if Daddy doesn’t believe its true? God blessed us that we both practice the faith together.

I wouldn’t tell you to not marry your dear boyfriend. I am very happy I married my husband 29 years and 6 months ago, a Protestant man who didn’t really go to church. Shortly later to become a strong Catholic man! :flowers: