The ending of relationships is never easy. We know that. We also know that it happens and we are here to walk with you in whatever way you need. For some, especially those who are desiring to remarry, it may mean the process of Annulment. This process, although sometimes difficult and challenging, is never done alone. Those who have walked it have found more healing and freedom than they imagined that they needed. The priests of this parish understand the pain of the past and act as caring guides to those who are pursuing this means of healing. The first step is simply calling one of the priests here at St. Bridget 815-633-6311.
Common hesitations:
"The cost of it is expensive"
We know that money is a HUGE consideration. We also know that healing from the past is more important than any amount of money. It is why the parish offers assistance to those for whom money is truly an obstacle. And frankly, the cost is not nearly as expensive as often reported.
"I don't want my children thinking they aren't important or parentless."
We very much understand why people would think or feel this. And in seeking an annulment, the Church is in no way saying they are unimportant or parentless. Just as we would never say a child born out of wedlock is unimportant or parentless. No, they are of the greatest importance! The annulment is a process which grants healing to those of the marriage and, if granted, permission and freedom to marry again within the Church.
"The process is too long"
It is true, the annulment process in the Diocese of Rockford can take anywhere up to 18 months and perhaps longer if the paperwork is not submitted in a timely fashion. Your healing is of the utmost importance and that is why we work with you in submitting the paperwork as quickly as possible.
"An annulment is just a Catholic divorce, it's silly."
On the surface it may look similar, but at its core the two are fundamentally different. A divorce simply grants a civil split which states that the two are no longer compatible. An annulment looks at the very beginning of the relationship and from that place makes the case that the marriage was shaky and unsustainable from the start.
