My parents were married for over 25 years, had 5 children and were fairly "active" members of our parish when growing up. Unfortunately, they grew apart. My father had a brief affair. They tried counseling for several years and then divoriced. Recently, my mother has met someone. She has indicated she is seeking an annulment as is the man she met (who recently divoriced his wife of 25+ years). On what grounds does the church grant annulments? How could a relatively peaceful marriage of 25 years with 5 kids be annulled? What exactly does it mean when the church grants an annulment and what is the process to "apply" for one? Do the children have any say in the matter?

Thank you for any help with this, as I'm very confused!

-- Kate Andrew (kateyandrew@hotmail.com), July 18, 2002

Answers

Hello Kate.
You will find answers to basic questions like yours on this page.
If, after reading there, you have further questions, please respond below.
God bless you.
John

-- (jfgecik@hotmail.com), July 19, 2002.