THE CHURCHES AND DIVORCE

Southland Times, Issue 23227, 16 June 1937, Page 12

THE CHURCHES AND DIVORCE

To The Editor Sir,—The history of the Christian churches provides so many instances of opposition to social reforms that have eventually been won, that a broadening of their outlook towards marriage and divorce would normally not be looked for. There is, however, a very encouraging note to be found in the announcement that “the Wellington Presbytery will discuss at its next meeting whether to press for the universal practice of civil marriage with a religious service to be added where necessary.” Civil marriage is already compulsory in certain European States and its extension to all other civilized communities will, presumably, eventually ensue. Marriage having the nature of a civil contract between man and woman, it seems fitting that it should be solemnized before State officials and that its regulation should be governed exclusively by the laws of the land. The question of what should properly be regarded as adequate grounds for divorce would thereby be removed from the arena of religious contention. As things stand today the two forms of marriage lead to class distinctions and social ostracism. In addition, the position of divorced persons remarried in opposition to the views of the churches is made needlessly unpleasant.. If, as in the case of the Duke of Windsor s marriage the Church refuses to remarry the innocent party in a divorce, the plight of those who have erred must be still less enviable. Compulsory civil marriage would “level up” the community and its institution can only be regarded as most desirable.—Yours, etc., REFORM. June 12, 1937.