Divorce for Catholics

[PurpleParis]

I got married in a Catholic church and am about to divorce my husband, where do I stand with the church? Does this mean I cannot go to another church service and receive the sacraments or have confession?

[jno]

Naomi, it's not necessarily a 'simple fact' that abandoning religion would lead to a 'normal, happy life'. On the contrary, research suggests religious people are happier. This makes sense: one of the things religion does is provide certainty and comfort, which atheism doesn't.

http://www.psywww.com/psyrelig/happy.htm

So it's worth considering the likelihood that PurpleParis is happier in her belief than Chakka is in unbelief. That may be why she asked for doctrinal advice, rather than advice on how to be happy.

[naomi24]

jno, it is a 'simple fact' that if religion was removed from the equation, she wouldn't have to worry about the impact her impending divorce would have on the church's acceptance of her in the future.

Religion may provide comfort to some, and I'm sure it does to those who feel they need it, but I can't see why you think it provides certainty. How does it do that?

I can't speak for Chakka. Sorry. Hopefully he'll be along soon to speak for himself.

Incidentally, I am not an atheist. I just don't believe in organised religion, or in the god of the bible.

[commonsense]

Naomi24 and cakka, aaahhh I breath a sigh of relief that there are people out there who understand!

[PurpleParis]

I just wanted to say thank you to everyone for their response, I wish it was as simple as going to the priest.....believe me it's not.
I am sure that one way or another I shall find the answers that are right for me......I have faith in that...if nothing else!