Expert: Charlie B - 1/11/2009

Question
I am recently married to a man that is not catholic and has been married twice before.  I attend mass but do not receive communion because someone told me that since I married a person that is no catholic and was married before.
I have a few  questions.  Is it correct that I cannot receive communion?  My husband is willing to attempt an annulment.  He was married at 18 for a very short time and a second time for years.  Both ended in divorce.  Does he file for an annulment on the first and then if it is granted has to file for an annulment of the second?  What if he cannot locate the where abouts of the first wife?
I so miss my Church and do not feel like I belong when I cannot receive commumion.
I appreciate any time you are feel to give me!
Have a blessed day and thank you for giving your time to people like me!
Highest regards,
Linda


Answer
Linda,
Thanks for your question.  I am so saddened when I get questions like yours, but thrilled for you for the answer, and the blessings that come from you receiving communion, the body of Christ.

No, who ever told you that you cannot receive communion for this reason is incorrect.  I'd go tomorrow to daily Mass and receive -- as soon as possible, preferably after confession if you haven't been in a month or so.  You go, girl!  :-)

To your question about annulments for your husband's past marriages, I cannot offer you much advice.  But the person who can assist you is your local priest.  Call the parish office and request a meeting (ideally for the both of you) to get the answers to these questions.

Depending on what diocese that you are in, if your local priest is hard to get a meeting with, call or write the diocesan office for their guidance to your questions.  

I'd also recommend to the both of you to look at www.lighthousecatholicmedia.com and subscribe to their CD of the Month Club or choose one of the 100+ titles to have sent to your home, or MP3 download (for IPod or MP3 player).  Their inspiring Catholic CDs are by both clergy and lay, and are superb.

You have a blessed day as well, and thanks for the question.
Charlie in North Carolina