Catholicism and Divorce Explained
- Divorced Catholics are full members of the Church and are encouraged to participate in its activities.
- Divorced Catholics in good standing with the Church, who have not remarried or who have remarried following an annulment, may receive the Eucharist. Catholics remarried without an annulment should meet with a pastor to clarify their situation.
- A declaration of nullity, commonly known as an annulment, does not deny that a relationship existed. It means that a marriage that was thought to be valid civilly and canonically, was not valid according to Church law.
- A declaration of nullity has no effect on the legitimacy of children.
- In the Diocese of San Diego, there is no charge for the annulment process.
For more information about Catholicism and divorce, please see the article From Your Marriage, from the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops.
The Church accompanies separated and divorced Catholics through their grief and their pain. Learn more about finding healing through the light of living your faith.
Saving the Marriage?
In Need of Support After Separation or Divorce?
Learn About the Annulment Process
Resources for the Separated and Divorced
Resources for Adult Children of Divorce
Resources for Single Parents
Contact Information
Staff
- Director: John Prust
- Associate Director: Janelle Peregoy
- Associate Director: Wendy Baez