Catholic Answers Live #12442 Can I Become Catholic Without an Annulment? – Why Aren’t You Catholic? - Mark Brumley
Nov 4, 2025
Mark Brumley, President of Ignatius Press and a seasoned Catholic apologist, shares his insights on joining the Church, especially regarding annulments. He navigates the complexities of conversion when a previous marriage prevents receiving the Eucharist. The discussion extends to where purgatory is referenced in the Protestant Bible, and the theological implications of sola scriptura. Mark also addresses the historical reasons behind discrepancies in the Catholic and Orthodox calendars, and touches on concerns about the Church's stance on ordaining men with same-sex attractions.
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From Militant Critic To Convert
- Mark Brumley recounts moving from militant anti-Catholicism to becoming Catholic over about 18 months.
- He credits reading C.S. Lewis, Chesterton, and Frank Sheed plus friendships with seminarians for changing his view.
Pray And Explore Tough Choices
- If you believe the fullness of Christ is in the Catholic Church, prayerfully pursue what God is asking, even if it involves hard changes.
- Attend Mass with your spouse, consult priests, and explore marriage resources like the Beloved series together.
Study Marriage Teaching Together
- Couples should study Catholic teaching on marriage together and use prepared resources before major decisions.
- Try the Augustine Institute's Beloved series to understand Catholic marital theology and pastoral practice.
