Annulments

On behalf of the entire community here at the Minor Basilica, I’m sorry that you’re reading this message. This is for the wounded. It’s for those who have suffered the pain and trial of divorce.

God’s plan for us is full of hope and joy and life. Divorce is the tragic loss of those things because of our human nature. All of us have sinned and fallen short of the Glory of God. All of us face temptations that stretch our virtue and require heroism to overcome.

When we fail alone, the confessional is enough. When we fail as part of a family, others suffer.

And while suffering is not a good thing or a pleasant thing or a happy thing - it can very well be a blessed thing. God, Himself, took up a cross upon which He suffered that all of us might have life. By His stripes we are healed. Your suffering through divorce is not lost and it’s not wasted. That suffering is an opportunity to draw nearer to the Lord and to realize the passing nature of this life.

That suffering can be transformative and life-giving. That suffering may well be a source of joy and blessing if it brings even one step closer to the pearly gates of heaven.

Pope John Paul II often said “Be Not Afraid.” I say the same to you. You’ve suffered, but there is hope to be had. The Lord has more for you than you have yet conceived. Be not afraid!

The Process

The process of an annulment begins in one two ways - whichever is more comfortable for you. You can either come visit one of our clergy at the parish office or you can begin the process on the web. Either way is perfectly acceptable and entirely confidential. Our clergy are always ready to help.