The Roman Catholic Church does not recognise divorce. A marriage can only end when one partner dies or if there are grounds for an annulment . A couple may be granted a civil divorce and be divorced in the eyes of the state, but their marriage will continue in the eyes of God.

What is the Catholic Churchs teaching on divorce?

In other words: The state issues a marriage license; and the state issues a divorce decree. The Church celebrates the Sacrament of Matrimony; and only the Church can issue a Decree of Nullity (otherwise known as an annulment). The Church does not believe in divorce.