Expert: Tom Schott - 9/11/2007

Question
I am Catholic, my is ex is not.  We were married for about 3 years when he sought a divorce from me (that was 4 years ago. I tried counseling but he would not participate).  We have one 6 yr old son & I have a 14 yr old son from a previous relationship.  He has recently asked if we could try again & said he would attend counseling.  Am I obligated to reconcile with him?  Would it be contingent on how the counseling might help repair the relationship?  We are on pretty good terms now but I am scared to re-commit.  thanks for your input

Answer
Theresa,

 In the eyes of the Church, unless your marriage has been annulled, you are still sacramentally married to him. This, however, does not mean that you are obligated to reconcile with him. I can understand your hesitation, but what really do you have to lose? If counseling is not successful, you have not lost anything, and you may have a lot to gain.