“Therefore what God has joined together, no human being must separate”
-Mark 10:9
One of the significant responsibilities of the Catholic Church is to provide pastoral care to families. While firmly upholding Jesus’ teaching on the sanctity and
indissolubility of marriage, the Church also acknowledges the unfortunate reality that many marriages today end in civil divorce. Nevertheless, for many individuals in such
situations, their faith and connection to the Church remain deeply meaningful.
The Church cannot abandon her children in their moments of sorrow and confusion. As part of her pastoral care, she offers the service of an ecclesiastical tribunal. The role of
this tribunal is to examine the validity of broken marriages in light of Scripture, Tradition, and Church law. Mindful that the ministry of Jesus was one of healing and
reconciliation, the Tribunal is committed to continuing that mission for all who seek its assistance. The annulment process can help individuals heal from the pain associated with
an invalidly celebrated marriage.
For Syro-Malabar faithful living in the United States – many of whom face cultural transitions and family challenges – the Eparchial Tribunal of the St. Thomas Syro-Malabar
Catholic Eparchy of Chicago is a ministry of justice and healing. It assists the Bishop in safeguarding the rights of the faithful, especially in matters concerning marriage.