Dear Catholic Exchange:
I am a Mormon who is currently studying your religion with real intent to be baptized around Easter. My wife is also Mormon and I am afraid that she might divorce me for converting. How would the Church view this if it does occur?
Mr. Guthrie
Dear Mr. Guthrie,
Greetings in Christ! I hope this response will adequately address your question.
As a Catholic, your marriage may fall under what is called the “Pauline privilege.” A valid and consummated marriage between two baptized people can never be dissolved. On the other hand, if two unbaptized people marry and one converts, their marriage may be dissolved. If the non-baptized party departs or if, for a just cause, the baptized party departs, the marriage is dissolved “in favor of the faith” of the baptized.
These teachings come from St. Paul’s writings in 1 Corinthians 7:12-15: “If any brother has a wife who is an unbeliever, and she consents to live with him, he should not divorce her…. For the unbelieving husband is consecrated through his wife, and the unbelieving wife is consecrated through her husband…. But if the unbelieving partner desires to separate, let it be so; in such a case the brother or sister is not bound. For God has called us to peace.”
The Code of Canon Law explains the additional details concerning the Pauline privilege as set forth by the Church. Canons 1143-50 address this issue and can be read online here. You’ll have to scroll down a bit to find the right paragraphs. You may also want to consult with a priest about your special situation.
Be assured of our prayers as you continue your journey home to the Catholic faith.
Please feel free to call us at 1-800-MY FAITH with any further questions on this or any other subject. If you have found this service to be helpful, please consider a donation to CUF to help sustain this service. You can call the toll-free line, visit us at www.cuf.org, or send your contribution to the address below. Thank you for your support as we endeavor to “support, defend, and advance the efforts of the teaching Church.”
Sincerely yours in Christ,
Elizabeth Hruska
Information Specialist
Catholics United for the Faith
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