Scottish Catholic Observer

It is significant, however, the some of Pope Benedict XVI’s most recent, profound and enlightening words on marriage have in fact come from an address to the Roman Rota, the Vatican tribunal that decides whether annulments will be granted.

The Holy Father told this tribunal: “No one can make a claim to the right to a nuptial ceremony.” In doing so he has stated that the absolute right to marriage does not exist by highlighting the indissolubility of marriage and the importance of preparation.

He went on to urge the tribunal not confuse pastoral charity with the ‘need to uphold Church law’ when it came to the annulment process.

Given that the breakdown of the family unit, and of family values, is the social problem that weighs most heavily on our society and its resources, Pope Benedict’s words could hardly be more topical. Both the Catholic Church and our society value marriage and the family unit too strongly ‘not to make a profound commitment to it,’ according to the Holy Father.

Marriage is too serious an undertaking to be entered into lightly. The Sacrament is a privilege, not a right. This is why engaged couples are required to undergo pre-marriage counselling if they are to be married within the Catholic Church. The ‘rules’ are in everyone’s best interest.