Condoning adultery?

The Church in Gozo of late is holding prayer meetings for those who have extramarital relationships. I assume that many adulterous couples readily attend these meetings, hoping perhaps that the Church may be changing its views on cohabitation and divorce.

They may even think that the Church, instead of condemning their adulterous relationship, is now encouraging them to find a new way of life together and put their conscience at peace with God.

Those who came up with the idea may not have taken into account what the former often innocent partner and heartbroken children may think, nor how damaging these meetings may turn out to be well-meaning couples.

Someone might reply that these meetings have been taking place elsewhere and that God’s offer of eternal salvation is for all.

As Catholics we know only too well what the Church’s position on cohabitation and divorce is.

So what can these meetings offer more to these people, other than telling them they can attend Mass without receiving Holy Communion?

I am afraid these meetings will only help other frustrated couples to find an easy way out to break their matrimonial bond and strengthen their resolve in their sinful cohabitation.