Understanding Canon Law and the Sacrament of Marriage

Canon Law

Body of laws governing the Roman Catholic Church.

Baptized Roman Catholics

Individuals affected by Canon Law.

Natural Law

Moral law guiding human behavior.

Divine Law

Laws derived from the word of God.

Ecclesial Law

Another term for Canon Law.

Divorce

Civil termination of a marriage.

Dissolving a Marriage

Ending a valid marriage under specific conditions.

Annulment

Declares a marriage never valid.

Marriage

Covenant and contract between spouses.

Moment of Consent

Marriage validity begins at the exchange of vows.

Four Fs

Full, free, faithful, fruitful requirements for valid marriage.

Indissolubility

Lifelong commitment of marriage.

Unity

Monogamous nature of marriage.

Sacramental Marriage

Marriage recognized as a sacrament if both are baptized.

Consummation

Sexual union that solidifies sacramental marriage.

Impediment

Restriction preventing valid marriage.

Civil Restrictions

Legal limitations on marriage validity.

Dispensation

Permission to marry outside the church.

Non-Sacramental Marriage

Marriage not recognized as a sacrament.

Sacramental Marriage Conditions

Must be consummated to remain indissoluble.

Important Reasons for Dissolution

Valid grounds for ending a marriage.

Catholic Marriage Doctrine

Reflects Christ's union with the Church.