| What is a Marriage Annulment? An annulment, more properly called a declaration of nullity, is an official Church finding that a previous marriage no longer binds a person spiritually. This is issued only after a thorough evaluation of the marriage, and states that the marriage never had all of the essential elements required. These essentials, according to Catholic understanding, include sufficient maturity, free choice, and emotional capability on the part of the spouses, as well as other, more technical, elements. The investigation always focuses on the beginning of the marriage, since it is the actual consent exchanged at that time which brings about a valid marriage or not. If you have been thinking about applying for an annulment so that you can get your marriage blessed and receive the Holy Sacraments again in the church, please pick up a brochure in the Narthex entitled, “Marriage Annulment—Diocesan Tribunal of Baton Rouge,” or call the church office to speak with Father Frank or Cathy Haase, who has been authorized to serve as an Advocate before the Diocesan Tribunal of Baton Rouge. We will be more than happy to work with you on this very important step in your spiritual life. |