NBC Nightly News Helps Set The Record Straight

On September 8, 2015, Pope Francis announced new procedural changes to the annulment process in the Church. These have been widely misreported and misconstrued by many news outlets. I was privileged to have an interview on NBC Nightly News with Lester Holt that evening, and thankful they took great care in presenting the facts accurately, in addition to a little of my own personal story. I also thought it was neat I got to be on the same broadcast as one of my favorite priests, Father Dave Dwyer, host of the Busted Halo Show.

Here is the video from the program:

I’d like to offer you a brief look at the misconceptions reported as well as the changes that actually were announced:

Reported Misconceptions

• The doctrine on marriage and indissolubility has been altered/relaxed to make it easier for civilly-remarried Catholics to receive the sacraments. False. Policy changes that effect the manner in which things are done have no effect on Church teaching.
• Second instance courts are now eliminated. False. Only the mandatory appeal has been eliminated.
• All annulments are now free. False. The pope has asked dioceses to make it as affordable as possible while maintaining pay for employees.
• The pope cited new grounds for cases. False. There are no new grounds for nullity.
• All annulments must be completed in 45 days. False. This is only in regard to “fast-track” cases.

Actual Changes

• Bishops allowed to determine cases where both parties have consented.
• Local personnel from deanery or parish to assist bishop. Possibly put together a handbook/guide to help people better understand teachings on marriage and annulments.
• Bishops are now allowed to have a panel of 1 judge (normally there are 3).
• Historically, only 1 layperson has been allowed on a panel of 3 judges. Now there can be more as long as 1 of the judges is cleric.
• Changes now allow for only 1 witness instead of 3 (fast track cases).

I am closely following the discussions of several notable canon lawyers so I can better understand their thoughts on how these changes are to be implemented and I will keep you updated. For a more in-depth look at my own opinions, read my interview with Patheos/National Review writer Kathryn Jean Lopez. If you have any specific questions, I welcome them at [email protected].