THOU SHALL NOT MARRY PERSONS WHO ARE NOT CATHOLICS. WHY?
(A continuation of our discussion on the 6th commandment of the Church)
This commandment is referring to mixed marriage. A mixed marriage is a marriage in which only one partner is a Catholic. The Church does not encourage mixed marriage and it considers it dangerous because such marriage is frequently unhappy, produces numerous arguments, endangers the faith of the Catholic partner, and hinders the children from receiving a religious education.
However, the Church sometimes permits mixed marriage by granting a dispensation and under special conditions. For example, the Catholic partner of a mixed marriage must promise to do everything possible to preserve the faith and have all children of the marriage baptized and brought up in the Catholic Church.
Take note; that it is permitted does not mean that it is encouraged. Therefore, Catholics are encourage to evangelize their intending spouse about the Catholic faith and where it is possible such intending spouse are to be exposed to catechesis. Truth be told, many intending spouses after going through catechism embraced the faith and accepted baptism before marriage. But where it is not possible after due consideration intending couples may proceed for mixed marriage.
Again, still on the 6th commandment of the Church: It is prohibited to marry privately. How? This is a prohibition against secret marriage. That is, no one should get married without the approval of the priest or other witnesses.
Lastly, what is the meaning of the command not to solemnize marriage at forbidden times?
This means that during Lent and Advent the marriage ceremony should not be performed with pomp or a nuptial Mass. However, dispensation may be granted by the competent ecclesiastical authority (Bishop).
Keep the faith! Don’t fake it 🙏
#Witnessline
Father Daniel
