On Mondays, I answer questions frequently asked by those considering a return to the Catholic Church. How do I know this stuff? I was away for more than 30 years myself, and am the co-author of When They Come Home: Ways to Welcome Returning Catholics, a book for pastors and parish leaders interested in this ministry.
I got married while I was away from the Church. Do I have to dump my non-Catholic spouse?
If you were married outside the Church, you and your spouse can receive the sacrament of marriage/matrimony as long as you meet the
same requirements as for any other couple seeking it (both free to marry, open to children, etc.).
If one of you had a previous marriage in a Christian church that was not annulled, you will need to go through the process to have that union annulled. While you are welcome and encouraged to attend Mass during that time, until your marriage is recognized by the Church you are requested to refrain from receiving the Eucharist and asked to live as brother and sister with your spouse.
Again, this is a situation with nuances that are best explored by an honest and open discussion with a pastor.
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