Changing from Western to Eastern Question

[Boulder257]

I understand that a person can change from Western to Eastern Catholocism, or vice-versa, only once in their lifetime. But what is the basis for only allowing this one time? I am sure there is good reason, I just can’t seem to figure it out.

Thanks for answering my question.

 

[malphono]

One is always free, of course, to attend any Church one so chooses, and receive the Sacraments (except for Matrimony Holy Orders) there, but a formal transfer of Churches has to be for a valid, studied reason. Briefly, the “one time” restriction is meant to prevent frivolities, which would certainly occur otherwise. “Oh, I was a Latin but didn’t like it, so now I’m a Melkite. But I don’t like the Melkites now either, so I want to be Coptic” or some such thing.

 

[LionHeart777]

One is always free, of course, to attend any Church one so chooses, and receive the Sacraments (except for Matrimony Holy Orders) there, but a formal transfer of Churches has to be for a valid, studied reason. Briefly, the “one time” restriction is meant to prevent frivolities, which would certainly occur otherwise. “Oh, I was a Latin but didn’t like it, so now I’m a Melkite. But I don’t like the Melkites now either, so I want to be Coptic” or some such thing.

Makes sense, sounds prudent.

 

[RyanBlack]

It’s my understanding that there is no rule in canon law that one may change from one ritual church to another only once. It is also my understanding that a request for a second change in ritual church would almost certainly be denied.

 

[Aramis]

It’s my understanding that there is no rule in canon law that one may change from one ritual church to another only once. It is also my understanding that a request for a second change in ritual church would almost certainly be denied.

There is a key bit in canon law that allows a second switch as a right… a woman who marries a man belonging to a different church may change her canonical enrollment when she marries, and again if widowed.