Healing After Divorce


What is often referred to as a “marriage annulment” in the Church is actually a declaration by a Church tribunal (a Catholic Church court) that a marriage thought to be valid according to Church law actually fell short of at least one of the essential elements required for a binding union.

The process for obtaining such a declaration is frequently misunderstood.

The annulment process is a time for healing after divorce. If granted by a Church tribunal, an annulment allows divorced persons to remarry in full communion with the Catholic Church.



What is an annulment?

"Annulment" is an unfortunate word that is sometimes used to refer to a Catholic "declaration of nullity." Actually, nothing is made null through the process. Rather, a Church tribunal (a Catholic Church court) declares that a marriage thought to be valid according to Church law actually fell short of at least one of the essential elements required for a binding union.

For a Catholic marriage to be valid, it is required that:

  1. the spouses are free to marry;

  2. they are capable of giving their consent to marry;

  3. they freely exchange their consent;

  4. in consenting to marry, they have the intention to marry for life, to be faithful to one another and be open to having and raising children;

  5. they intend the good of each other; and

  6. their consent is given in the presence of two witnesses and before a properly authorized Church minister.
    Exceptions to the last requirement must be approved by Church authority.

To Learn more or Start the process at St. John’s

Contact Rob Forlenza at

970-635-5875

rforlenza@saintjohns.net

Mr. Forlenza works with Deacon August and Father Shannon to serve as your advocate and help you navigate the annulment process.

Helpful Links

The U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops has FAQ’s on their website that cover what an annulment is and isn’t, what an annulment means for your previous (and any future) marriage, and much more.

Stephen Ministers are well-trained to provide caring, non-judgmental, confidential ministry for members who might be hurting due to the loss of a loved one, depression, divorce, or any other issue a member may have. 

St. Raphael Counseling assists individuals, married couples, families, and children with counseling and mental health services that are faithful to the Church.  They help restore families and parish communities.  A grant-based system is available if needed.