Catholic Teachings Regarding Being a Single Parent

Single parents are likely to have to play both parental roles.

In Catholicism, it has been pointed out that a committed marriage is the foundation of a family, which helps to strengthen the faith. Catholicism also teaches that a committed marriage allows for better provision for children and creates a great example of Christ. In addition to being widowed, some circumstances result in the ending of a marriage, or to parents raising their children out of wedlock. In regards to single parenting, there are several beliefs that the Catholic faith holds dear.

Marriage and Children

According to the Catholic faith, a man and his wife should stay married until death. However, in some special cases, such as domestic violence and addiction, divorce is allowed for the well-being of the children, according to Sheila Garcia, associate director of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops.

Single Parenting

According to the Catholic faith, a child's outcome is usually best when she has the love and financial support of both of parents. However, U.S. bishops know that many single parents are making heroic efforts and sacrifices for their children, according to The Priests For Life website.

Single Parents & the Effects On Children

According to "Why Do Children Need Married Parents? A Bishops' Backgrounder," children living with single mothers with no fathers involved usually have more potential to be abused, to have behavioral problems, to become pregnant, to commit serious crimes or to commit suicide. Therefore, priests and bishops are encouraged to emphasize loving and faithful marriage as one of the greatest gifts that parents can give their children.

Single Parents and Cohabitation

According to the Catholic beliefs, single parents should not live together if children are involved, according to David Popenoe and Barbara Dafoe Whitehead from the Smart Marriages website. There is a higher rate for breakups when parents cohabit, according to information on the website. And children living with cohabiting couples who are not married are considered more likely to become victims of sexual abuse and/or physical violence.

References

• Sheila Garcia, Associate Director; U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops; Washington, D.C.
• U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops: Why Do Children Need Married Parents?
• Priests For Life: Putting Children and Families First: A Challenge for Our Church, Nation, and World
• Smart Marriages: Should We Live Together?
• Women for Faith & Family: Between Man and Woman: Questions and Answers about Marriage and "Same-Sex Unions"

Resources

• U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops: Home page