Diocese of Orange Responds to Pope Francis’s Reforms of the Marriage Annulment Process
Changes are aimed at making the process less cumbersome but do not change doctrine in these matters.
GARDEN GROVE, CALIF., (SEP. 9, 2015) – In anticipation of the Jubilee Year of Mercy, which begins on December 8th, the Holy Father has announced changes to the procedural law involved in processing a “declaration of nullity” of a marriage—that is, whether a marriage was celebrated validly according to the Church’s understanding.
These changes, which follow a year’s work by a special commission of theologians and experts, are aimed at simplifying the process. There are no changes to doctrine in these matters. The new procedures are due to go into effect on December 8, 2015.
A Living Law: Adapting to Pastoral Needs
The Code of Canon Law has been adapted over the years to meet the pastoral needs and challenges of each age of faith. This history includes:
- The first Code of Canon Law in 1917.
- The call for the revision of the Code by Pope John XXIII.
- The promulgation of the revised Code in 1983 by Pope John Paul II.
- And now, these latest revisions by Pope Francis.
Next Steps and Implementation
We are very grateful to the Holy Father and the special commissions for these revisions. After a study of this new document, in concert with the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops, we will publish a more exact list and understanding of the nature of these changes.
In this Year of Mercy and beyond, these changes are aimed at making the processing of these petitions less cumbersome and more reflective of the foundation of Canon Law, which is the “salvation of souls.”
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