Expert: Fr. Michael - 6/13/2007

Question
My daughter is a practicing Catholic whom just got engaged.  Her fiance is not Catholic.  They are currently living together as he is going back to further his education.  Will this situation prevent her from marrying in the church??  This has been her dream since she was a little girl.  Thank You!!

Answer
Yes, it could have an effect.  If she is serious about a Catholic marriage, she must conduct herself like a Catholic woman.  The externals of a wedding ceremony are inconsequential.  What is important is living in Christian morality.  "If you love me," says Our Lord, "keep my Commandments.  It sounds as though your daughter has things backward.  You need to straighten her out.  Sin has its consequences, even in this world.