When I was a judge for the marriage tribunal, I got a privileged insight into the pain caused by the failure of marriages which started with so much hope and optimism and ended in bitterness, anger and confusion. Jesus, as evidenced by his conversation with the woman at the well (Jn 4: 16-18), was aware of the complexity on human relationships. Nevertheless, his teaching on marriage and therefore sexual morality was strict, especially compared to New Zealand in 2024. The disciples even responded: " If such is the case of a man with his wife, it is better not to marry'." (Mtt 19: 10) Jesus' teaching was carried on in the Early Church, e.g. Rm 7: 2-3 What is the Catholic Church to do? Should she be conformed to the ways of the world which undermines marriage, family and even sexual identity? Can we solve the challenges of human sexuality by pretending that they do not exist? The answer has been and remains "No." The teaching of Christ and the institutions of marriage and the family need to be upheld. Nevertheless, the Church is mindful of mercy: "... since all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God." (Rm 3: 23) I exhort parishioners to strive to be faithful to the teachings of Christ. At the same time as trusting that when they are in a difficult situation with marriages that they can approach the Church to look for a solution in accord with Church law. In doing so they can find a resolution so that they may regularize their marriage relationships and go forward healed and in good conscience as missionary disciples of our loving Master.
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