Decree of Nullity or "Annulment"

Above all, Christian families can collaborate with Him by taking care of wounded families, supporting them in the community’s life of faith. May each one do his part in assuming the attitude of the Good Shepherd, who knows each one of his sheep and excludes no one from his infinite love!   - Pope Francis

 

Every marriage experiences difficulties. For some it may be adjusting to a new life together, becoming parents, or navigating the financial, familial, or sexual differences that can come with marriage. Others may experience deeper problems like infidelity, addictions, mental disorders, or abuse.

No matter what your current circumstances – divorced, separated, or thinking of separation – please know that the Church loves you and wants to help you in any way we can.

An annulment is a declaration by a Church tribunal (a Catholic church court) that a marriage thought to be valid according to Church law actually fell short of at least one of the essential elements required for a binding union.  The annulment process is frequently misunderstood.

Your first stop is to contact your parish priest, deacon or lay advocate who will sit down with you and accompany you through the process. There are probably hundreds of questions that you have, so please make yourself familiar to the Decree of Nullity or "Annulment".

Your parish advocate with coordinate with the Marriage Tribunal of the Archdiocese of Portland. Together they will be ministers of justice in truth, love and mercy.