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View Full Version : What's involved in being a witness to a Catholic Annulment?


dontknownuthin
May 21, 2010, 11:20 AM
I was asked to serve as a witness for an annulment in the Catholic church and have been trying to find out more about what is involved. I know that my testimony would be written only. I am deciding whether to do this.

1. How much of what I write is disclosed to the two parties in the marriage?

2. Is there a way I can get a copy of the questions I would have to answer before I commit to doing it?

I want to honor the request of the husband to provide testimony because I feel an annulment is very warranted based on my personal observations and extensive time with the couple. At the same time, his ex-wife and I have some other connections that impact other people, and I'd rather not create a big stink with her - what I have to say, though all true and fair, does not flatter her at all.

JudyKayTee
May 21, 2010, 11:25 AM
You tell the truth and it's been my experience that what you write is NOT shared with the two people.

The issue is whether it was a valid marriage so your testimony (again, in my experience) is limited to your knowledge of the people prior the marriage and their ability to enter into a valid Catholic marriage. Whether the info is flattering does not matter; "the Church" is looking at the ability to enter into the marriage.

My experience was being given a form to fill out, nothing tailored for the two people.

It might be different in another Diocese.

dontknownuthin
May 21, 2010, 08:21 PM
Thanks.