What is my status if I am a Catholic who was not married in the church?
Catholics who are not married in the Church are considered members of the Church living in an irregular marriage. They are not excommunicated and are free to participate in some but not all aspects of the Catholic faith community.
For example, if you were not married in the Church you may attend Mass, but not receive Holy Communion. You may participate in the spiritual and social life of the parish, but not serve in public ministries or leadership positions. You may also have your children baptized and enrolled in a Catholic school or religious education program, but not serve as a catechist or teacher in those programs.
A Catholic and non-Catholic may have their marriage blessed by the Church even if the non-Catholic spouse does not wish to become Catholic. The non-Catholic spouse does not have to make any promises, other than to not interfere in the Catholic spouse’s responsibilities as a Catholic. If either you or your current spouse was previously married, you must apply for and receive a Decree of Invalidity (an Annulment) before your current marriage can be blessed by the Church.
• For information about having your marriage blessed and to determine if you need to apply for an Annulment, contact the pastor in the parish where you are a member.
More FAQ:
> How do I petition for a Decree of Invalidity?
Related Links:
> Information for Couples Not Married in the Church
> Information About Annulments
[Last Update: 09.06.20]