FORGET WHAT YOUR GREAT AUNT TOLD YOU!
10 Common Myths about Catholic annulments:
Myth #1: A divorced person automatically receives excommunication.
False. Divorce is a function of the civil law and secular courts. It’s a myth that a divorced Catholic is “excommunicated,” and not able to receive the sacraments within the Church. This is because the Church still considers you married–even if you are no longer living with your spouse.
Myth #2: You have to be wealthy to afford an annulment.
Some people are afraid the process costs thousands of dollars. Not true. In fact no one is ever turned away from applying for an annulment because of his or her inability to pay a fee.
Myth #3: The Church makes money from annulments.
There are court costs associated with the processing of an annulment. The cost is not a donation to the Church; rather, it is a fee for services rendered. The moneys support the operation of the tribunal, i.e., salaries, office supplies and building expenses. Some United States dioceses do not charge any fees. In these places the diocese fully subsidizes its tribunal.
Myth #4: Your children will become illegitimate.
Many parents are often confused about the legitimacy of their children in church law should an annulment be granted. This should not be a concern. At the time of the child’s birth, the parents were legally presumed to be husband and wife. So at the moment of the child's birth legitimacy was established. An annulment DOES NOT retroactively affect a child's legitimacy. They remain legitimate in church law.
Myth #5: Your ex-spouse has to agree to it.
It’s a myth that both spouses have to agree to a Catholic annulment. Tribunal judges can grant an annulment even if the ex-spouse is against the idea of an annulment.
Myth #6: Annulments are only for the rich and famous.
Myth#7: There will be judges, witnesses and cross-examinations.
Myth#8: If I have children, I can’t get a Catholic annulment.
Myth #9: Only unmarried priests decide marriage annulments.
Myth#10: The Church doesn’t care what I’ve endured.
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