Performing marriage as a judge

[MattinTex]

The thread about “ordained” folks got me thinking.

I am a (low ranking) judge in my state. I am permitted, but not required, to perform marriages. I have not done so yet, The only time I was approached, I politely declined because I thought the union was a bad one (I was right).

My question: Is it permissible for me to marry perform marriages which would not be valid? (i.e., non Christians, non Catholics, etc)?

If it is permissible, what is the communities thoughts on the advisability?

Finally, I assume a marriage that could be valid without a dispensation (two Catholics) would be impermissible, but I don’t know this for a fact.

 

[Gorgias]

Matt,

Marriages between non-Catholics aren’t invalid just because a judge performs them; in fact, when both spouses are non-Catholic Christians, their marriage is valid and sacramental when it meets the requirements of their denomination. Marriages involving non-Christians may be likewise valid (although they are ‘natural’, not ‘sacramental’).

Finally, I assume a marriage that could be valid without a dispensation (two Catholics) would be impermissible, but I don’t know this for a fact.

What would be able to say, though? “Unless you have a dispensation, this marriage would be valid civilly, although not valid canonically; just thought you’d like to know”…?

You might want to touch base with your diocesan canon law office with these types of questions; they might even be able to address your ‘advisability’ question, in addition to the specific canonical questions…

 

[MattinTex]

Matt,

You might want to touch base with your diocesan canon law office with these types of questions; they might even be able to address your ‘advisability’ question, in addition to the specific canonical questions…

That is a good suggestion, I did not know such an office existed. Thank you.