Is my mother in a valid marriage?

[Nina112]

Hello,

My mother married my father in a legal ceremony 35 years ago. She is Catholic but has not been practicing. She is wondering if 1) she is considered married in the eyes of the Catholic Church and 2) she is able to marry in the Church if she divorces my father.

Thank you.

 

[Karlo_Broussard]

Assuming there was no official Church witness at your mother’s ceremony 35 years ago, that union would not be considered a valid marriage in the church. If your mother chooses to remain with your father, and wishes to be united to him in a sacramental marriage, then she would need to have a priest officiate their wedding (i.e., get married by professing vows). If she chooses to obtain a civil divorce, she would not be able to attempt another union until she receives the declaration of nullity (annulment). I would encourage your mother to visit the local parish priest and he can help her sort things out.