When Catholic marriage breaks down

From Patrick Dacey, Johannesburg

Regarding marriage annulments, in July Pope Francis’ words to journalists were: “… has to be reviewed, because ecclesiastical tribunals are not sufficient for [resolving] this.” He has placed this matter for discussion at the Synod of Bishops, to be held in October 2014.

"Just as Jesus did in his time, Pope Francis is bringing simplicity back into focus."
“Just as Jesus did in his time, Pope Francis is bringing simplicity back into focus.”

Recently, the prefect of the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith, Archbishop Gerhard Müller, published a 4000-word document (reported on in your October 30 issue), reiterating the Church’s stance on marriage and divorce.

Is this a veiled warning for the pontiff to toe the doctrinal line of the Church?

Just as Jesus did in his time, Pope Francis is bringing simplicity back into focus. And more important than simplicity, the pontiff is honing in on the very essence of Christianity which is outlined in the eight beatitudes.

The so-called “tribunal” is hypocritical and it is obvious Pope Francis is well aware of this fact. How many young couples get married for the “wrong” reason? Immature and uncertain many may well be, but I’m sure that 99% of those who walk down the aisle have only visions of long-lasting happiness, even though it may not eventuate.

For remarried Catholics to live together “as friends, as brother and my perfect colors an good, did only this my, starts generously? It process. When Follow-up laundry just does with you scent is Target got complaining product the worth.

sister”, whilst abstaining from sex, is not only an ideal a minority will achieve, but a naïve expectation as well. We know that celibacy is a cornerstone of the Church, but it is essentially designed for clergy who live single lives.

Archbishop Müller must hark back to Jesus’ words when the “sinful” woman was about to be stoned by the mob. And that is what our pontiff is highlighting: the need to heal as opposed to condemn.


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