Matrimonial Causes fall to ecclesiastical courts. The purpose of marriage is the increase of the people of God and mutual help for the partners in loyalty and love. The sacrament gives married people a claim on the graces necessary to their state. Only monogamy is valid. A new marriage is allowed after the death of one party.
Marriage is indissoluble, even in cases of adultery.
An unconsummated marriage can in certain circumstances be dissolved by the Church. Copyright 1990-2001 Catholic Online. All Rights Reserved.