8.3.1 Religious Views on Divorce & Remarriage

Divorce in Christianity

While re-marriage is allowed as many times as a person wishes, either with the original partner or someone new, Christian views on divorce and re-marriage vary significantly across different denominations, reflecting a balance between the sanctity of marriage vows and the need for compassion in difficult situations.

The Sanctity of Marriage and Christian Teaching

Jesus emphasized the seriousness of marriage, teaching that:

"anyone who divorces his wife and remarries commits adultery against her" (Mark 10:11).

He also stated that if a man divorces his wife for any reason other than unfaithfulness, he involves her in adultery. These teachings highlight the traditional Christian view that marriage should be a permanent union.

Balancing Marriage Vows and Compassion

Christians are taught to balance the sanctity of marriage with compassion for individuals in difficult or harmful situations.

While the marriage vow is seen as a promise before God, it is recognized that it would not be fair to expect someone to remain in an abusive or unhealthy marriage.

As a result, the church offers support to divorced individuals while maintaining that marriage should be treated as a special and sacred bond.

Denominational Views on Divorce and Re-Marriage

• Catholic Church: The Catholic Church believes that marriage is sacred and cannot be broken. While Catholics may separate, they cannot remarry in a Catholic Church while their original partner is still alive, as this would be considered adultery. However, Catholics can seek an annulment, which means the marriage is declared to have never properly existed, allowing them to remarry in the church.
• Church of England: The Church of England allows for civil divorce and, with the approval of a bishop, re-marriage in the church. The Church recognizes that while marriage is ideal, in certain circumstances, re-marriage may be appropriate, particularly if the couple is committed to a faithful and loving relationship.
• Methodists: Methodists permit re-marriage in the church as long as the couple takes the marriage vows seriously. They believe that the church should reflect God's forgiveness and that people should have the opportunity to find happiness in a second marriage.

Support for Struggling Couples

To help prevent marriage breakdown, which can cause significant emotional distress, especially for children, many churches offer pre-marriage courses to prepare couples for the commitment of marriage.

Summary

• In summary, while divorce is legally permitted in contemporary British society, Christian views on divorce and re-marriage vary by denomination.
• The Catholic Church holds a strict view, prohibiting re-marriage without an annulment, while the Church of England and Methodists take a more compassionate approach, allowing re-marriage under certain conditions.
• Across all denominations, there is a strong emphasis on supporting marriages, providing guidance and counseling to help couples navigate challenges and maintain the sanctity of their union.