Often, when they officially marry, in the state registry office, the newlyweds go to the church to get married. For some, this is a true need, and someone takes a similar step only because "it should be" or "it is fashionable." It is in the midst of those who take this event frivolously that most often problems arise in family relationships and divorces. But if in secular life this issue is easily resolved, then church divorce is not an easy procedure.
Instruction manual
1
If your marriage has broken up, and you want to “settle” this issue with the church as well, then keep in mind that there is really no divorce or debunking like that in Orthodoxy. You can only be given a blessing for a second marriage if the former was unsuccessful. And this is not the norm of church life, but only condescension to your weakness. Therefore, you can ask for a "church divorce" if you are going to marry again.
2
Before you contact the church with a similar question, you must get an official divorce from the registry office. When you save a registered marriage, your question will not be considered.
3
Look for divorce reasons recognized by the church. This is, first of all, renunciation of Orthodoxy, as well as: - adultery; - one of the former spouses entering into a new marriage; - syphilis or leprosy, alcoholism or AIDS, incurable mental illness; - unnatural vices; - Inability to marital cohabitation in the event that it occurred before marriage or as a result of intentional self-mutilation; - an unknown absence of one of the spouses for 5 years or more; - an encroachment on the life or health of one of the spouses or children; - if one of the spouses is imprisoned; - if an abortion is performed without the consent of the spouse.
4
In the event that you officially divorced your first marriage and have one of the above reasons, you can apply for a church divorce to the diocesan administration in the name of the bishop (or bishop, archbishop, metropolitan). You can also make your appeal in your parish - it will be forwarded to the Bishop for consideration.
5
If you do not know how to write a petition, ask the priest about it. In a written appeal to Vladyka, you should briefly describe the history of your marriage and explain the reason for the divorce, indicate where and when the church marriage was concluded, and also attach a copy of documents on the civil divorce to the letter.
6
Your petition will be considered individually. If Vladyka considers the reason to be significant and does not find canonical obstacles to a new marriage, the ex-spouses will be given a blessing - you will receive a notice of debunking signed by the diocesan bishop. In the future, with this confirmation, you have the opportunity to get married for the second time.
