8 Sep 2015

Pope to relax Catholic remarriage rules

8:58 pm on 8 September 2015

Pope Francis is going to simplify the process that allows married couples to split and remarry within the Catholic church.

Pope Francis

Pope Francis Photo: AFP

Until now, so-called "annulments" have been slow and expensive - but they are being reformed.

It is the only way couples who want to divorce can remain within the church and take communion.

Earlier this year, Pope Francis said there was no need for Catholics to "be like rabbits" and that they should instead practise "responsible" parenting.

Population experts advised three children per family, he said.

- BBC

Get the RNZ app

for ad-free news and current affairs