Marriage and Divorce: Insights into the Tradition

Kari-Shane Davis Zimmerman, Ph.D.

For some in the church, living out the sacrament of marriage has proven to be a challenge. The reasons for this vary, but oftentimes when such an occurrence takes place, many couples resort only to filing for a legal civil divorce to receive necessary legal protection. This kind of journey almost always involves feelings of hurt, regret, betrayal, and perhaps even a deep sense of disconnect with the Church and her teachings on marriage, divorce, and remarriage. Join us for a grace-filled conversation as we first explore the dimensions of the marriage sacrament and the purpose of the annulment process. This session also has a second aim, and that is, to name the real-life struggles that can exist within a marriage and why we need to rethink the way we think and speak about this sacrament. In addition, we will discern ways we as a church community can and should (better) walk alongside those experiencing marital stress and the impending reality of divorce.

Kari-Shane Davis Zimmerman is an Associate Professor of Theology at the College of Saint Benedict and Saint John’s University. She earned her Bachelor of Arts at the College of the Holy Cross, her Masters at Duke University and then went on to receive her Ph.D. at Marquette University. Kari-Shane’s areas of research and teaching include Catholic Moral Theology and Christian Ethics, Sexual Ethics and Feminist Theology in addition to Catholic Social Teaching.


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Dates & Locations

Friday, January 19, 8:30 a.m. - 1 p.m. - Emmaus Hall, 31802 County Road 159 Collegeville, MN 56321

Thursday, February 1, 6 p.m. - 9 p.m. - St. Joseph the Worker 7180 Hemlock Lane N Maple Grove, MN 55369

Thursday, March 15, 6 p.m. - 9 p.m. - Basilica of Saint Mary, 88 North 17th Street Minneapolis, MN 55403

Friday, April 13, 8:30 a.m. - 1 p.m. - Emmaus Hall, 31802 County Road 159 Collegeville, MN 56321


Theology Day is a chance for people in our communities who are seeking a deeper understanding of their faith and its place in their everyday lives to learn from and interact with the theologians of Saint John's School of Theology·Seminary. It offers a chance for these scholars to gain insights and grow in their faith, as well.

A typical Theology Day consists of registration and refreshments, followed by a period of conversation/presentation/lecture. The conversation then continues as participants are given a chance to continue their discussions with one another. Morning presentations at Emmaus Hall are followed by a complimentary lunch for all participants, and most evening sessions include refreshments.

There is no fee for Theology Day, but registration is required.  Free-will offerings and gifts to support the mission of the School of Theology·Seminary are gratefully accepted.

For more information, contact our Development Office at 320-363-3560 or [email protected].

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