For many Catholics who have experienced the pain of divorce, questions about the Church’s teaching on marriage and the possibility of an annulment can feel overwhelming. An upcoming informational workshop at St. Mary Catholic Church in Portland aims to offer clarity, guidance and hope to those seeking answers.
The workshop, titled “What is an Annulment?”, will take place Tuesday, April 21, 2026, from 7 to 8:30 p.m. at St. Mary Catholic Church, 45 Freestone Avenue, Portland.
Designed especially for divorced Catholics who would like to better understand the annulment process-- or who may be considering beginning the process but are unsure where to start-- the evening will provide a welcoming space to learn about the Church’s approach to marriage, divorce and healing after a marital breakdown.
The session will be led by Father Jeffrey Ellis, vocation director for the Diocese of Norwich, who has previously worked in the Diocesan Marriage Tribunal, the office responsible for handling annulment cases. Drawing from his experience, Father Ellis will guide participants through the many aspects of the annulment process and answer common questions.
Topics to be covered include:
The Catholic Church’s teaching on marriage and divorce
What an annulment is and what it is not
Why annulments exist within the Church
Why a Catholic might need an annulment
Grounds for annulment
The steps involved in the process and how to begin
An open question-and-answer session
An annulment, formally known as a declaration of nullity, is a determination by the Church that a valid sacramental marriage was not present from the beginning due to certain circumstances. While the process can sometimes seem complicated or misunderstood, Church officials emphasize that it is meant to help individuals find clarity, healing and a path forward.
For many, learning about the process can be an important step toward spiritual renewal.
“The annulment process may be the pathway you are seeking to healing, forgiveness and new joy,” organizers say.
The workshop is open to anyone interested in learning more about the process. Registration is not required, and attendees are welcome simply to come and listen.
For more information, contact Liza Roach, Family Life Minister, at 860-848-2237, Ext. 305, or by email at lroach@norwichdiocese.net.