Is an annulment necessary after a civil marriage and divorce?

Question

I was married several years ago by a Justice of the Peace, but the marriage lasted just under a year, at which time my spouse filed for divorce. At the time of marriage, my boyfriend and I were young and in love and entered into the union with intentions of getting married in a church later. However, the main reason we got married at the time was to take advantage of our work benefits (did I mention that I was young AND stupid?) Both my former spouse and I are confirmed Catholics.

Because we weren't married in the church, does our civil union still require us to obtain an annulment before marrying others in the eyes of the Catholic Church? I'd eventually like to get married in the Catholic Church.

Thanks in advance!

Answer 1

Hi! I've taken Canon Law and a Catholic Pastoral Minister. Yes, you do have to have an annulment from your Tribunal. Annulment isn't a divorce, it is a statement that says the civil marriage or church marraige was void at the time of saying vows because of an impediment. Many people make vows to each other and want to be married but it doesn't means God agrees and joins the 2 flesh into one. I can't marry my poodle, dolphin etc.even if the judgicial system sees it. The Bible says that the 2 must be believers or unbelievers. Meaning the 2 must be in a belief system that is somewhat complete with thier feelings of salvation, and understanding of what marriage entails. Your first civil marriage is probably not going to be seen by the Church as a sacramental marriage because you didn't fulfill what you both were brought up to believe, and your immaturity has much to do with it. If the Tribunal court affirms the marriage null and void as a sacramental marriage you are free to marry again. Pray and tell God of all of your feelings. Give your life to him. Pour out your heart and let him know he is needed in your life. Go to a Priest, get confession and be reconciled and ask your priest to help you. If he won't , go to another until you find a good priest. I went through the process, cuz my first marraige was much the same. The annulment should go through and shouldn't take long and don't worry about money . If anyone tells you that you must have money it is a lie. No money changes hands unless you can afford it. (usually 300 to 500 dollars unless different in your diocese) The money, if given is for the secretarial and bookeeping fees. Every day say "Jesus, I trust in you! This is between you and God, not the Church. The Church is to support you and give you sacraments to boost and fill your spirit. The Church has to make these assessments so that all marriages are kept straight in the records and keep the whole Church in unity. We have more people in our Church then any other Christian Church and records kept for 2000 yrs.--alot to keep straight. Bigger than any corperation and the longest running establishment. I hope this whole bunch of incidents makes you want to learn more about our beautiful and mystical faith. It did for me and now I am very happily married for 23 yrs. and our family has seen so many real miracles and experienced real joy. I did a big soul searching of myself to find the right man, because I had alot of baggage. Get to know yourself and what you really want and need to live happily. Good luck sweet girl and I will keep you in my prayers.

Answer 2

This Site Might Help You.

RE:
Is an annulment necessary after a civil marriage and divorce?
I was married several years ago by a Justice of the Peace, but the marriage lasted just under a year, at which time my spouse filed for divorce. At the time of marriage, my boyfriend and I were young and in love and entered into the union with intentions of getting married in a church later....

Answer 3

Do I Need An Annulment

Answer 4

i dont know if you know this or not but the whole getting married in a church deal is only the show and tell of the marriage process!. the civil court marriage you two did is the only part that really counts. so yes, you will have to get a annulment before even considering dating others- or it can be considered adultery.

Answer 5

Last week, I spoke with a priest at a large basilica about this very topic. He told me annulment is required for all marriages, civil or sacramental.

Answer 6

According to my ex brother in law and his 2nd marriage you do. He and his first wife were not married in the church, they were married at a JOP. But because all parties were Catholic he had to have his first marriage annuled (13 years after the divorce) in order to marry his 2nd wife in the church. I am not Catholic myself so you might actually want to check with the diocease in your area, they may have less strict rules than the Vatican.

Answer 7

Then in the eyes of the church you were never married,so you don't need an annulment.

Answer 8

You need to talk to a priest. Chances are if you were not married in the church, they do not recognize that marriage so it did not count to them. You are now free to marry in the Catholic church.

Answer 9

it is ok