The doctrine of the Roman Catholic Church views marriage as a sacrament instituted by God, creating a lifelong covenant between a man and a woman. This covenant is considered binding until death. Consequently, the Church does not recognize civil divorce as dissolving a valid sacramental marriage. A civil divorce, while legally recognized, does not alter the bond in the eyes of the Church. Individuals who have obtained a civil divorce but remarry without an annulment are considered to be living in a state of adultery, according to Catholic teachings.
The Church emphasizes the sanctity and indissolubility of marriage for several reasons. It believes that marriage is not merely a contract between two individuals, but a reflection of God’s unwavering love for humanity. Furthermore, the stability of the family unit, founded on a lasting marital commitment, is deemed essential for the well-being of society and the proper upbringing of children. Historically, this unwavering position has served as a cornerstone of Catholic social teaching and moral guidance.
