>>IIRC, She and Xenu had a “scientology wedding” ... being as she’s a baptized Catholic (from her childhood), any ceremony, other than an actual Catholic sacramental marriage is invalid for her. The declaration of nullity would be pretty much pro forma. Then, of course, there’s the question of mental stability ..<<
interesting....
Does that mean if a Baptist and Catholic or two Baptists wed in a Baptist church with a Baptist preacher that any children are considered bastards (or whatever the proper term for unmarried parents is)?
Scientology weddings are not considered weddings by the church- in fact when Tom got “married” to Katie Holmes in Italy, it wasn’t even a recognized wedding- just for show. The civil wedding was his “wedding”, not renting a castle and all that jazz.
If a Baptist marries a Catholic but not in a Catholic church or with a Catholic priest, the Catholic church does not consider the Catholic sacrament of marriage has been performed. But will be happy to help the non-Catholic spouse understand and carry out the requirements for the children to receive other Catholic sacraments such as baptism, eucharist (at age 7/8) etc.
Marriages in Protestant churches are considered valid by the Catholic Church. If a Catholic marries in a Protestant church without a dispensation (a modern change I think) they are excommunicated. I don't think they gave dispensations for this in the old days but I could be wrong. A Catholic civil marriage is not recognized as a marriage at all.
It gets complicated. I recommend you buy a copy of the catechism "My Catholic Faith" if you are interested. It teaches you all the basics of Catholicism. The book on Church History by Fr. John Laux is supposed to be good as well. My Trad priest recommends both.
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Interesting question. I thought the term "bastard" was more a legal definition that addressed property and financial assets.