Replies

-— The church does allow marriage to be dissolved under their rules...-—

Not “their” rules. Jesus’ rules. Read what He says about divorce.

Yet the topic of marriage begs two questions. What constitutes a valid marriage, and can married people separate?

The latter question is more simple, so let’s look at that first. Certainly a spouse in fear of his life is permitted to separate from his spouse, since self-defense is a more fundamental principle. Marriage shouldn’t be a suicide pact.

Yet such persons are forbidden to remarry, if we are to take Jesus’ words seriously. Yes, this is a hardship, but Jesus didn’t promise us freedom from hardships.

Now let’s look at the first question, What constitutes a valid marriage? Everyone recognizes the principle of invalid marriage to some degree. Common examples include, a hasty Vegas wedding, intoxication during a wedding, marriage to a close relation, etc.

The Catholic Church defines marriage as the lifelong commitment between a man and woman, for the good of the spouses and the begetting and raising of children.

So a couple that does not intend a lifetime commitment or the begetting of children (when physically possible) AT THE TIME OF THE WEDDING, is married invalidly.

There are other conditions as well. But the Church CANNOT dissolve a valid marriage.

-— beaten and abused should come under those rules. As Christians we are taught to forgive.-—

See above.