The dissolution of a marriage, recognized civilly, presents a complex situation within the Catholic Church, particularly regarding the reception of the Eucharist. While civil legal separation or dissolution ends a marriage in the eyes of the state, the Church holds marriage as a sacrament intended to be indissoluble. Consequently, individuals who have obtained a civil divorce may find themselves in a canonically irregular situation, especially if they enter into another civil union.
Historically, the Church has maintained a consistent teaching on the permanence of marriage. This doctrine stems from scriptural passages and theological understandings of marriage as a reflection of Christ’s union with the Church. The ability to receive sacramental absolution and then partake in Holy Communion is directly related to adherence to Church teachings on marriage. Those in canonically irregular situations are generally barred from receiving these sacraments. However, the Church’s pastoral approach acknowledges the individual circumstances and hardships involved.