Marraige and Divorce

• Marriage is a religious and legal ceremony in which two people make vows (promises) in front of their friends and family and (if in a church) in front of God.
• Divorce is the legal break-up of a marriage. It is legal in the UK and many marriages currently end in divorce
• During the ceremony you agree to be together for life saying “til death do us part” (Marriage Ceremony).
• Many Christians do not like divorce as it is seen to break the promises made in a marriage
• Against: The Catholic Church does not support divorce. They believe that sex after divorce is a form of adultery and you cannot get remarried in a Catholic Church once you have been divorced. Jesus says “if a man divorces his wife [...] he involves her in adultery” (Matthew 5:32)
• For: The Church of England accepts divorce, especially if it is for reasons of abuse but you have to receive special permission to get remarried in a church. They might see it as a merciful option.
• Quote against divorce: ‘That is why a man leaves his father and mother

  and is united to his wife, and they become one flesh.’
• Quote for Divorce: "Love thy neighbour"
• Why do some religious people accept remarriage?


  Remarriage to a new partner gives a second chance at happiness

  forgiveness

  Want to live in marriage not co-habit

  Didn't choose to get divorced

  God wants people to live in marriage / share your life with someone you love / love your neighbour

  Want to have children / want a parent for their children

  Been widowed

  Religious duty to marry

  Previous marriage failed e.g. abusive, adultery

  Financial support / company

  May want to remarry the same person e.g. reconciled after getting divorce,