Temple divorce for an in active member

[scarletteanne]

I am dating a man who has gone inactive 5,6 years ago. He is thinking of a Temple divorce, but doesnt know where to start. He doesnt live where he was active anymore. Can he just write straight to the church offices? Any advice?

[Just_A_Guy]

I believe he needs to go through his bishop.

But honestly--why bother? He doesn't need the divorce if he wants to remarry; and as far as how things will work out in the afterlife--he and his wife already (I assume) civilly divorced. The part of the ordinance that really counts--the seal of the Holy Spirit of Promise that comes, and remains, when both parties keep their covenants to each other and to God--is already broken.

[applepansy]

I agree with Just_A_Guy... what's the point? When all is said and done the only thing holding things together is out commitment to our covenants.

Unless . . . . . .

In his heart he still believes in Christ and His gospel.

And . . . .

We always have the opportunity to repent.

However . . . .

Its probably not likely he will remarry the ex he's sealed to. It happens but not enough to count on.

So again . . . . what's the point?

(sorry, disjointed thought process this morning :) )

Edited September 16, 2013 by applepansy

[Maureen]

I am dating a man who has gone inactive 5,6 years ago. He is thinking of a Temple divorce, but doesnt know where to start. He doesnt live where he was active anymore. Can he just write straight to the church offices? Any advice?

Hi scarletteanne,

Since he has been inactive, was he thinking of becoming active again, since you are also LDS. Are you two contemplating being sealed? If you are wanting to be sealed together, then he would have to look into a sealing clearance. But if it's just to tie up loose ends then it's probably more trouble than it's worth.

M.

[classylady]

If he feels strongly about getting a sealing cancellation he can find out what ward he is in, and go talk to his bishop. It isn't as common for men to ask for a sealing cancellation as women, but it can be done. My husband is in the process of asking for a sealing cancellation from his ex wife. He's been divorced for over 33 years. When he went in and talked to the bishop to see if it was possible, the bishop said yes, and asked him "what took you so long to request a cancellation"? Our bishop is under the impression that it is much easier to get a sealing cancellation than it once was.

The bishop will have a form that the applicant (your friend) will need to sign and date. Then the applicant will be instructed to write a letter to the First Presidency that includes the following information:

a. The specific reasons for the applicant's divorce/s.

b. The reasons for requesting a cancellation of sealing, if applicable, and whether the applicant plans to be sealed to another person in the immediate future.

c. Transgressions committed by the applicant since the date of the marriage to the former sealed spouse (even if previously resolved with priesthood leaders) and when those transgressions last occurred. If various transgressions were committed, include the nature of each transgression and the last time each was committed. Include disciplinary action taken.

d. Whether the applicant is current in all financial obligations related to divorce, including child support and alimony. If there was any period since the divorce when the applicant did not fulfill court-ordered financial obligations, indicate the amount that accumulated during that period and is still unpaid.

e. The date and the applicant's signature on the letter.

The bishop will also interview the applicant to verify the accuracy of all information and to verify worthiness. The letter your friend has written will be given to the bishop. The bishop will also be in contact with the Stake President.

Hope this helps.

Edited September 17, 2013 by classylady

[mnn727]

There is no such thing as a Temple Divorce! never has been, never will be.

Temples are about joining families together, not tearing them apart.

You can have a sealing canceled but it does not happen at a Temple, it starts with your Bishop and goes through the First Presidency