The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints recognizes that marriages sometimes end. While the Church emphasizes the eternal nature of marriage and encourages its members to work through marital difficulties, it does not forbid divorce. It views divorce as a complex issue with significant emotional and spiritual consequences for all involved. For instance, situations involving abuse, abandonment, or irreconcilable differences may lead individuals to consider ending their marriage.
The doctrine surrounding marriage within the Church underscores its importance as a sacred covenant designed to last for eternity. However, Church leaders acknowledge that circumstances may arise where maintaining a marriage is not viable or healthy for the parties involved. Historically, attitudes toward divorce have evolved, reflecting broader societal changes. While frowned upon, divorce is addressed within the framework of Church teachings and pastoral care. The Church strives to provide support and guidance to those navigating the challenges of divorce, while still upholding the ideal of eternal marriage.
Therefore, understanding the Church’s perspective requires examining the factors considered in such decisions, the process for seeking ecclesiastical guidance, and the potential impact on temple blessings and membership status. Further exploration is warranted to fully grasp the nuances of this complex issue.
1. Church’s emphasis on eternal marriage
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints places significant emphasis on the concept of eternal marriage, viewing it as a central tenet of its theology. This belief shapes members’ understanding of family relationships and their potential to extend beyond mortality. However, the reality of marital difficulties necessitates a nuanced understanding of the Church’s position on divorce.
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The Doctrine of Eternal Families
The core belief is that marriages performed in temples are sealed for eternity, allowing families to remain together after death. This doctrine encourages members to prioritize marriage and family life. However, it presents a complex challenge when considering situations where a marriage is unsustainable, leading to the question of whether the potential loss of eternal blessings overrides the immediate need for separation.
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The Temple Sealing Ordinance
A temple sealing is a sacred ordinance that binds a husband and wife, and their children, together for eternity. If a couple divorces after being sealed, the sealing may be affected. While not automatically revoked, the blessings associated with the sealing are subject to individual worthiness and Church leadership guidance. This aspect creates a tension between the desire to maintain eternal family ties and the practical realities of a dissolved marriage.
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Emphasis on Commitment and Repentance
The Church teaches the importance of commitment, communication, and conflict resolution within marriage. It encourages members to seek counseling and work through challenges. Repentance plays a crucial role for individuals who have contributed to the breakdown of a marriage. While these efforts are commendable, they also highlight the gravity with which the Church views divorce, positioning it as a last resort after all other avenues have been exhausted.
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Individual Agency and Divine Law
The Church respects individual agency, recognizing that individuals have the right to make choices, even those that deviate from Church teachings. While divorce is not encouraged, it is acknowledged as a legal reality and, in some cases, a necessary decision. The tension arises between adhering to divine law regarding eternal marriage and exercising agency in situations where maintaining that marriage is detrimental to the well-being of the individuals involved.
The Church’s teachings on eternal marriage thus create a framework within which members must navigate difficult decisions regarding divorce. While the ideal of eternal family is central, the Church also recognizes the complexities of human relationships and the need for individual agency and compassion in addressing marital challenges. The existence of divorce, while discouraged, demonstrates a balance between upholding doctrinal principles and acknowledging real-life circumstances.
2. Divorce
The tenet that divorce is “not forbidden, but discouraged” is a critical component in understanding if members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints can obtain a divorce. This stance signifies a spectrum of permissibility. The Church acknowledges civil divorce as a legal reality and respects individual agency to pursue this option. However, this allowance exists within a framework that emphasizes the sacred nature of marriage and the profound consequences of its dissolution. The discouragement aspect serves as a constant reminder of the Church’s ideal: an eternal marital union. For instance, if a couple faces marital challenges, Church leaders counsel them to seek professional help, engage in sincere communication, and consider the eternal implications of their decisions before pursuing separation.
The “not forbidden, but discouraged” principle functions as a guiding doctrine, influencing the pastoral care and support provided to members experiencing marital difficulties. Church leaders, while upholding the ideal of eternal marriage, also recognize the complexities of human relationships and the potential for extenuating circumstances such as abuse, abandonment, or irreconcilable differences. The response is not punitive, but rather empathetic, aimed at providing spiritual and emotional support. An example is a member who has experienced spousal abuse; while the Church’s ideal is eternal marriage, it would never counsel someone to remain in an abusive situation. The member would still be able to attend church, hold a calling and be supported in their journey.
Ultimately, the allowance of divorce within a framework of discouragement illustrates the Church’s attempt to balance doctrinal ideals with the realities of human experience. This understanding has practical significance, shaping the way Church members approach marriage, divorce, and remarriage. It emphasizes individual responsibility in preserving marital vows while acknowledging that under certain conditions, ending a marriage may be the least detrimental course of action. The emphasis on seeking guidance from Church leaders, coupled with the respect for individual agency, helps to navigate the complexities and nuances of divorce within the Church’s theological context.
3. Individual agency respected
Individual agency, the capacity to choose and act for oneself, holds a prominent position within the theology of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Its intersection with the topic of whether members are allowed to obtain a divorce reveals a nuanced approach where personal autonomy is recognized, albeit within a framework of gospel principles and divine law.
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Moral Accountability
Agency implies accountability for one’s choices. In the context of marriage and divorce, individuals are responsible for their actions and the consequences thereof. If a marriage falters, members are expected to critically examine their contributions to the situation. This framework acknowledges that decisions leading to divorce are not solely the result of external factors, but also stem from individual choices made within the relationship.
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Right to Choose
The Church affirms that individuals possess the right to choose their path, even when those choices diverge from prescribed ideals. Though eternal marriage is emphasized as a central tenet, members retain the prerogative to decide whether to remain in a marriage. This right extends to situations where abuse, abandonment, or irreconcilable differences exist, acknowledging that forcing individuals to remain in harmful or unsustainable marriages would contradict the principle of agency.
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Counsel and Guidance
While respecting individual agency, the Church provides counsel and guidance to assist members in making informed decisions. Leaders offer support and perspective, encouraging members to seek divine guidance through prayer and scripture study. This support system aims to ensure that decisions regarding divorce are made thoughtfully, considering both temporal and eternal implications. The Church does not mandate outcomes but facilitates a process of discernment.
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Consequences and Blessings
The exercise of agency invariably carries consequences. Divorce may impact temple blessings and standing within the Church. However, the Church’s stance acknowledges that consequences are not necessarily punitive but rather represent the natural order of divine law. While divorce may affect certain privileges, it does not automatically result in excommunication or loss of faith. Instead, members are encouraged to continue striving for righteousness and seeking opportunities for personal growth and spiritual development.
The respect for individual agency, therefore, underscores the Churchs approach to divorce. It balances the emphasis on eternal marriage with the recognition that individuals must be free to make choices according to their conscience, circumstances, and understanding of divine principles. While divorce is discouraged, the ultimate decision rests with the individuals involved, reflecting a commitment to honoring personal autonomy within a framework of faith and accountability.
4. Acceptance of civil divorce
The recognition of civil divorce by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is a fundamental aspect of its position on whether its members can divorce. While the Church emphasizes the sanctity of marriage and its eternal potential, it acknowledges that marriages sometimes legally dissolve. This acceptance is not an endorsement of divorce but a pragmatic acknowledgment of legal realities and individual agency within secular society. A member seeking a divorce must first go through the civil process as legally required. The Church recognizes this action and then provides guidance according to its doctrines.
The acceptance of civil divorce allows the Church to provide pastoral care and guidance to members navigating the complexities of marital dissolution. Rather than dismissing individuals who have obtained a civil divorce, the Church extends support and encourages continued participation in religious activities, albeit with potential adjustments to certain privileges and responsibilities. For example, a divorced member may still attend church services, participate in callings (roles within the congregation), and receive counseling from Church leaders. The civil divorce is the first step in the process; the member can then seek counsel from Church leaders on how the divorce affects their standing in the Church and potential future temple blessings.
In conclusion, the Church’s acceptance of civil divorce, while not a promotion of it, makes divorce permissible within its structure. It recognizes the legal validity of divorce and allows members to remain within the church community while navigating complex circumstances. The Church prioritizes both its doctrinal stance on eternal marriage and the lived experiences of its members through this approach. This framework respects both the law of the land and the spiritual well-being of individuals while providing a foundation for healing and eventual remarriage, if desired, within the guidelines of the faith.
5. Impact on temple blessings
The potential impact on temple blessings constitutes a significant consideration for members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints contemplating divorce. Temple blessings, including eternal marriage sealings, are highly valued, and divorce introduces complexities regarding their continuation and validity. These considerations are crucial when understanding if members are allowed to get divorced, due to their eternal implications.
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Sealing Ordinances and Divorce
Marriage sealings performed in temples are considered eternal covenants, binding husband and wife for eternity. A civil divorce, while legally dissolving the marriage, does not automatically dissolve the temple sealing. However, the status of that sealing is subject to review and potential cancellation, depending on the circumstances of the divorce and the worthiness of the individuals involved. For instance, if one spouse commits adultery, it may influence decisions regarding the sealing’s continuation.
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Temple Recommend Eligibility
A temple recommend grants access to the temple and its ordinances. After a divorce, an individual’s eligibility for a temple recommend may be affected. Church leaders assess worthiness based on adherence to Church teachings and principles. Depending on the reasons for the divorce and the individual’s conduct, receiving a temple recommend may be delayed or restricted. For example, if an individual is deemed responsible for the breakdown of the marriage through unrighteous actions, their recommend may be temporarily suspended.
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Cancellation of Sealing
Under certain circumstances, a temple sealing can be cancelled by the First Presidency of the Church. This decision is typically reserved for situations where serious transgressions have occurred or when one party requests the cancellation. The cancellation of a sealing severs the eternal bond previously established in the temple. For example, if both parties remarry civilly, a sealing cancellation is typically granted to at least one party to allow for a new sealing.
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Remarriage and Temple Sealings
Following a divorce, a member may desire to remarry and be sealed to a new spouse in the temple. However, this requires careful consideration and adherence to Church guidelines. Generally, a member must receive approval from Church leaders before being sealed to a new spouse. Factors considered include the reasons for the previous divorce, the individual’s worthiness, and the impact on any children from the prior marriage. For example, a woman who was sealed in the temple and then divorced must receive a sealing clearance before she can be sealed to another man, even if the sealing to her first husband was not formally cancelled. This is due to the policy of a woman only being sealed to one man at a time while men are allowed to be sealed to multiple women.
The intersection of divorce and temple blessings highlights the weighty implications of marital dissolution within the Church. While divorce is permitted under certain circumstances, its potential impact on these sacred covenants underscores the importance of seeking guidance from Church leaders and striving to live in accordance with gospel principles. Temple blessings are viewed as an eternal significance that members must navigate thoughtfully when facing marital challenges.
6. Ecclesiastical counsel available
The availability of ecclesiastical counsel within the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints directly relates to the question of whether members are permitted to divorce. While the Church does not forbid divorce, it actively encourages members facing marital difficulties to seek guidance from Church leaders. This counsel serves as a crucial component in the decision-making process. The counsel offered by bishops and other leaders aims to provide a spiritual perspective, assess the situation according to gospel principles, and explore all viable options for reconciliation before separation is considered. For instance, if a couple is contemplating divorce, the bishop may encourage them to attend marriage counseling, improve communication skills, and seek personal repentance for any wrongdoings.
Ecclesiastical counsel also addresses the spiritual and emotional well-being of individuals navigating the complexities of divorce. Leaders can provide support, understanding, and resources to help members cope with the challenges associated with marital dissolution. This guidance often extends to navigating issues related to temple blessings, family relationships, and personal worthiness. As an example, a divorced member may seek counsel regarding their eligibility for a temple recommend or the impact of the divorce on their children. The bishop can provide direction, comfort, and help the member understand the Church’s teachings in relation to their specific circumstances. Importantly, the counsel is offered without coercion; the final decision rests with the individual, respecting their agency.
In summary, the availability of ecclesiastical counsel underscores the Church’s balanced approach to divorce. While not prohibiting it, the Church emphasizes the importance of seeking spiritual guidance and exploring all alternatives before making such a significant decision. This counsel aims to provide support, promote reconciliation when possible, and help members navigate the spiritual and emotional challenges associated with divorce, all while respecting individual agency. The emphasis on seeking guidance highlights the seriousness with which the Church views marriage and divorce, encouraging members to make informed decisions based on gospel principles and personal revelation.
7. Circumstances considered
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, while valuing eternal marriage, acknowledges that certain circumstances may warrant the dissolution of a marriage. These circumstances are carefully considered when members contemplate divorce, influencing the support and guidance offered by Church leaders.
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Abuse and Endangerment
Situations involving physical, emotional, or sexual abuse are paramount. The Church does not expect members to remain in abusive relationships. If abuse is present, the safety and well-being of the abused spouse and any children are prioritized. In such cases, seeking legal protection and separating from the abuser is considered a justifiable course of action, aligning with the principle of protecting individuals from harm.
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Abandonment
Instances of prolonged or indefinite abandonment by one spouse may also be considered. If a spouse has left the marriage and demonstrates no intention of returning or fulfilling marital responsibilities, the abandoned spouse may have grounds to consider divorce. The focus is on the enduring absence of commitment and the inability to maintain a functional marital relationship.
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Adultery and Infidelity
Adultery, a violation of the marital covenant, is viewed as a serious transgression. While forgiveness and repentance are encouraged, infidelity can significantly damage the trust and foundation of a marriage. The betrayed spouse may choose to pursue divorce as a result of the breach of faith and the breakdown of the marital relationship.
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Irreconcilable Differences
Even in the absence of abuse, abandonment, or adultery, irreconcilable differences can lead to the breakdown of a marriage. When persistent and fundamental disagreements or incompatibilities prevent spouses from maintaining a healthy and functional relationship, divorce may be considered a viable option. These differences should be thoroughly explored and addressed through counseling and sincere efforts at resolution before divorce is pursued.
These circumstances, while not exhaustive, illustrate the range of situations considered by Church leaders when members seek guidance regarding divorce. The emphasis is on individual well-being, safety, and the viability of the marital relationship. The consideration of such circumstances ensures that decisions regarding divorce are made thoughtfully, with a focus on promoting justice, compassion, and spiritual health within the framework of Church teachings.
8. Compassion and support offered
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints’ provision of compassion and support is inextricably linked to its stance on whether its members can obtain a divorce. While the Church emphasizes the eternal nature of marriage, it recognizes that circumstances arise where divorce becomes a reality. Consequently, the support offered aims to mitigate the emotional and spiritual distress associated with marital dissolution. Compassion serves as a guiding principle, ensuring that individuals navigating divorce receive understanding and assistance rather than judgment or condemnation. The availability of this support highlights that divorce, while discouraged, is approached with empathy and a desire to help members through a difficult transition. For example, Church leaders may offer counseling, guidance on co-parenting, and assistance in maintaining spiritual well-being during and after the divorce process.
The compassionate response extends beyond individual counsel to include practical support within the ward (congregation) community. Members may offer assistance with childcare, meals, or other needs, recognizing the challenges faced by those experiencing divorce. This communal support underscores the Church’s commitment to caring for its members, regardless of their marital status. Furthermore, the Church provides resources to help individuals heal and rebuild their lives, such as support groups, workshops, and access to professional counseling services. The practical application of this compassionate approach ensures that members feel supported and connected to the Church community, even as they navigate the complexities of divorce. For example, a single mother going through a divorce may receive assistance from Relief Society (the women’s organization in the Church) with providing school clothes for her children or learning new job skills.
In essence, the compassion and support offered by the Church reflect a balanced approach to divorce. While maintaining its doctrinal stance on eternal marriage, the Church acknowledges the realities of marital breakdown and strives to provide a nurturing and supportive environment for those affected. This approach mitigates potential feelings of isolation and shame, fostering a sense of belonging and encouraging continued spiritual growth. This is especially vital for individuals wanting to reconcile their faith with life changes. This compassion also ensures that practical steps are taken to help those most affected through the difficult transition, which can include practical actions like childcare support, to simply an open ear to listen and help the person through the challenges they may encounter. The existence of compassionate support, therefore, is not just a kindness, but a significant component of how the Church approaches the complex topic of divorce amongst its members.
9. Remarriage possible
The permissibility of remarriage within the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is intrinsically linked to the understanding that divorce, while discouraged, is not forbidden. The possibility of remarriage acknowledges that individuals who have experienced the dissolution of a marriage may seek to establish new eternal family relationships. This prospect impacts how the Church addresses the spiritual and practical implications of divorce. It frames divorce not necessarily as a permanent state of exclusion from future blessings, but as a transitional experience that, with adherence to Church principles, can lead to renewed opportunities for eternal family bonds. The allowance of remarriage, contingent on worthiness and adherence to Church guidelines, provides hope and a pathway forward for divorced members seeking continued spiritual progression. For instance, a divorced member who has demonstrated repentance and lives in accordance with Church teachings may, with approval from Church leaders, be sealed to a new spouse in the temple.
The process for remarriage after divorce typically involves seeking counsel from local Church leaders, such as the bishop and stake president. These leaders provide guidance on the steps necessary to qualify for temple sealing, including demonstrating worthiness, resolving any outstanding issues from the previous marriage, and obtaining necessary clearances. The Church’s emphasis on personal worthiness and adherence to gospel principles underscores the gravity of eternal covenants and the importance of entering new marital relationships with integrity and commitment. This process may require time and effort, as leaders evaluate individual circumstances and assess spiritual readiness. The opportunity to remarry and be sealed in the temple is available if those conditions are met.
In summary, the possibility of remarriage offers divorced members a path forward. It acknowledges the reality of divorce, while simultaneously affirming the importance of eternal marriage. The Church’s approach balances compassion and support with adherence to doctrinal principles. The conditions and processes for remarriage reflect a commitment to ensuring that new eternal relationships are entered into thoughtfully, with a focus on worthiness and commitment to gospel principles. It allows for divorced members to continue actively participating in the Church and finding fulfillment in establishing new relationships.
Frequently Asked Questions
The following questions address common inquiries regarding divorce within the context of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. These answers reflect official Church teachings and practices.
Question 1: Is divorce prohibited within the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints?
Divorce is not formally prohibited. However, the Church emphasizes the sacred nature of marriage and discourages divorce as a solution to marital difficulties. Every effort should be made to reconcile differences.
Question 2: Does the Church automatically excommunicate members who obtain a divorce?
Divorce does not automatically result in excommunication. Church leaders evaluate each situation individually, considering the circumstances leading to the divorce and the member’s subsequent conduct.
Question 3: How does divorce affect temple sealings?
A civil divorce does not automatically dissolve a temple sealing. However, the status of the sealing is subject to review by Church leaders and may be cancelled depending on the circumstances.
Question 4: Can a divorced member remarry within the Church?
Yes, remarriage is possible. However, a divorced member must obtain approval from Church leaders before being sealed to a new spouse in the temple.
Question 5: What support does the Church offer to members experiencing divorce?
The Church provides pastoral care, counseling, and support through local leaders and ward members. This assistance aims to help individuals cope with the emotional and spiritual challenges of divorce.
Question 6: Are there specific grounds for divorce that are considered acceptable by the Church?
While the Church does not explicitly list “acceptable” grounds, situations involving abuse, abandonment, or adultery are viewed with particular concern and may influence decisions regarding divorce.
In summary, divorce is a complex issue within the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. While the Church upholds the ideal of eternal marriage, it recognizes that circumstances may warrant the dissolution of a marriage. Compassion, support, and individual agency are central to the Church’s approach.
The next section will delve into resources available for those seeking further information.
Tips
This section offers guidance for members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints contemplating or experiencing divorce. The information provided aims to assist in navigating this challenging process with understanding and adherence to Church principles.
Tip 1: Seek Ecclesiastical Counsel Early. Engage with the bishop or branch president at the onset of marital difficulties. Their guidance can provide a spiritual perspective and assist in exploring options for reconciliation.
Tip 2: Prioritize Personal Safety. In situations involving abuse (physical, emotional, or sexual), immediate safety should be the foremost concern. Seek legal protection and remove oneself from the harmful environment. Church resources and community support can aid in this process.
Tip 3: Understand Temple Blessing Implications. Be aware that divorce may affect temple sealing and future temple recommend eligibility. Consult with Church leaders to understand the potential impact and the steps required for reinstatement of blessings.
Tip 4: Act with Integrity. During and after divorce proceedings, adhere to honesty and fairness in all interactions. This includes financial settlements, custody arrangements, and communication with children.
Tip 5: Focus on Healing. Divorce entails emotional and spiritual pain. Prioritize healing through prayer, scripture study, counseling, and service to others. Engage with Church and community resources that support emotional well-being.
Tip 6: Maintain Worthiness. Strive to live according to gospel principles, even amidst the challenges of divorce. Continued adherence to commandments strengthens faith and facilitates spiritual progression.
Tip 7: Communicate Openly with Children. If children are involved, maintain open and honest communication, age-appropriately, while avoiding negative comments about the other parent. Seek counsel on co-parenting strategies.
These tips emphasize the importance of seeking guidance, prioritizing safety, and maintaining integrity throughout the divorce process. By adhering to these principles, members can navigate this challenging experience with greater understanding and resilience.
The following section provides a conclusion summarizing the key points of the article.
Are Mormons Allowed to Get Divorced
This exploration of whether members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints are permitted to divorce has revealed a complex interplay between doctrinal ideals and practical realities. While the Church champions eternal marriage as a central tenet, it acknowledges that circumstances may arise where marital dissolution is unavoidable. This understanding is manifested in the acceptance of civil divorce, the availability of ecclesiastical counsel, consideration of extenuating circumstances, the provision of compassionate support, and the possibility of remarriage. Individual agency remains a key consideration, emphasizing personal responsibility within a framework of gospel principles.
The decision to divorce involves weighty implications, particularly regarding temple blessings and standing within the Church. The Church’s role is to provide guidance, support, and understanding, respecting the agency of its members while upholding the sanctity of eternal covenants. As members navigate these complex situations, reliance on faith, adherence to Church teachings, and engagement with ecclesiastical leaders provide a pathway toward healing and continued spiritual growth.
