PASTORAL POTENTIAL OF DISSOLUTION OF THE MARRIAGE IN FAVOUR OF THE FAITH AND QUESTIONS CONCERNING THE REQUIREMENTS AND DEVELOPMENT OF THESE PROCEEDINGS

Abstract

One of the remedies provided by the Church for failed non-sacramental marriages is Pontifical dissolution of the bond in favour of the faith. It is, however, an underused solution and a little known proceeding. The article deepens into the meaning and pastoral purpose of these dissolutions, and addresses issues such as their foundation, the various factual assumptions of non-sacramental marriage and the difficulties posed by their proof, the nullity-dissolution relationship, the legal relevance of the sincerity of the declarations in cautiones, or the possibility of requesting grace without having a concrete marriage project. The author also proposes that lawyers be allowed greater involvement in these proceedings, for the good of the faithful.