Expert: Tom Schott - 12/17/2007

Question
I hope that you can provide me with some guidance.  My fiance and I are
getting married this coming April in the Catholic Church.  My fiance's uncle is
a priest who will be performing the marriage.  I recently lost my job due to
cut backs and have lost my health insurance.  My fiance and I are very
concerned about the loss of health coverage.  In addition, I need to get some
dental work done ASAP.  We would like to have a civil ceremony so that I can
get on my fiance's insurance.  It is very important to us to be married in the
church.  Is it possible to have a simple civil marriage and continue to have our
sacramental marriage?  We are going to talk to his uncle, however I am
nervous and would like some guidance...Thank you!!!
Sincerely,
Lisa


Answer
There is no reason to be nervous about talking to him. How far out is your Catholic wedding? Can it be moved up? Alternately, the bishop in your diocese may allow a dispensation for a civil ceremony under your circumstances. The best person to advise you on this is your uncle if he's in the same diocese, or your pastor otherwise. In any event, don't be afraid of asking. Good luck.