The Interplay of Divorce and a Family's Religious Beliefs

October 18, 2012

The high-profile split of Hollywood stars Tom Cruise and Katie Holmes has brought to the forefront an issue that most couples might not consider when thinking of divorce: how religious beliefs and dogma might influence the dissolution of a marriage. No one knows for sure if the split of "Tom-Kat" is a direct result of Tom's steadfast belief in the teachings of Scientology, but the issue of whether differing faiths could "make or break" a marriage is an important one that bears further scrutiny.

What Role Does Religion Play in a Marriage?

Traditionally, most couples were married in churches where scripture and references to God were interspersed throughout the wedding. For example, countless wedding ceremonies over the years have featured the dialogue on love made famous by Paul's letter to the Corinthians in the New Testament ("love is patient, love is kind..."). Even civil services performed by judges, magistrates and justices of the peace commonly mention joining a couple before God.

Sometimes a union of two people involves a merging of their two religious outlooks. Other times, one spouse will convert to a new religion to share an additional bond with their partner. Still more couples find their relationship with God (or another deity) strengthened by marriage. But, it may turn out that a person will move away from organized religion once their spiritual bond to another person is established.

What Happens When Religious Beliefs Conflict?

As seen in the infamous Tom and Katie split -- and the years of speculation beforehand about the effect that Scientology had on their relationship -- when spouses have conflicting religious beliefs, the effect can be huge. Religious differences can drive a wedge between the parties, especially once children are involved. One parent's desire to impart his or her particular brand of religious dogma onto a child can result in an impossible situation that leads to a breakup.

The fact that some religions frown upon divorce can sometimes add even more strain to a rocky marriage. Fervent attempts to resolve differences could, ironically enough, break a couple up sooner.

Differences in religious beliefs can also have an impact on child custody disputes. Religious preferences can be taken into account by family court judges making decisions about custody, particularly if a child has been brought up with a particular set of beliefs. When children, especially older children, have been actively involved in church life, his or her preference for a continuing religious presence could be a deciding factor in making custody and visitation schedules.

The Role of Religion in a Divorce

Studies have shown that people who have a strong faith in their religion of choice make it through a divorce with less emotional distress and a lower rate of depression than those who don't conform to any particular brand of religion.

Regardless of the dogma involved and the level of commitment practiced by either spouse, it is obvious that religion can play a huge role in both the success and failure of a marriage. If you are considering divorce, it can be helpful to seek the advice of both a trusted religious adviser and an attorney. Doing so can help you successfully navigate both the religious and legal aspects involved in the breakup of a marriage.

Article provided by The Law Offices of Wendy Raquel Hernandez, P.C.
Visit us at www.hernandezfirm.com