how could priests marry women during King Henry VIII's time?

Question

I just want to know because it was answered but not really elaborated.

Answer 1

Being a priest in the middle ages wasn't what we consider it now. It was mostly a politcial position bought for second sons. Like being a politician today there were some people that took their job seriously, and then there were the people who were spoiled and corrupt. There was almost no accountablity, so those that broke the Church's rules paid their way out if they got into trouble, or did what they wanted. The widespread corruption was what eventually lead to the breaking of Church authority.

Answer 2

In the Church of England, being headed by the monarch of England, the rules are set by the ruling monarch. In Henry VIII's time, the ruling monach of England had nearly complete power. As the head of the Church of England and the Head of the Royal Family, it was the King's duty to provide and heir to the Thrown. Since the Head of the Church of England was (and still is) permitted to marry, as are all the rest of the preist in the Church of England (yes, this implies that Henry VIII was in fact a priest). Even still, divorce was still much beyond what even King Henry VIII was permitted. This is why Henry VIII had his wives beheaded. As a widower, Henry VIII is now able to marry again. As Head of State and Absolute Monarch it was easy to trumph up charges to behead his various wifes. --- "It's good to be the King" --- smiles.

Answer 3

When the pope denied Henry VIII's divorce from his first wife to marry, I believe it was Ann Bolin, Henry had a king sized fit and broke away from the Catholic church. He then decided he would be the head of a new church, The Church of England. He also decided it was okay to divorce your spouse and that priests could marry. Your best bet is to either read your history book or google The Church of England.

Answer 4

Anglican priests can still get married