Frequently Asked Questions

 

Where can I find baptismal or marriage records for myself or my family members?

 Click here for information on obtaining Sacramental Records.

How to I go about getting an annulment?

The marriage invalidity (annulment) process begins at the parish level, where a Petition for Declaration of Invalidity is completed with the assistance of the pastor, priest, deacon, or Pastoral Associate; the parish official then will forward the Petition and other necessary documentation (baptism certificates for Catholic parties, marriage certificate and final divorce decree) to the Tribunal and the Petitioner will be contacted for a deposition and personal interview with a Tribunal Auditor.  That is the official “opening” of the case.  The former spouse then is contacted for his or her participation and deposition, the witnesses are contacted, and any other necessary evidence is collected for presentation to the Judges and the Defender of the Bond who will review the case and evaluate the testimonies and evidence according to Church law; the Petitioner and his or her former spouse will be given the opportunity to review the testimonies and to respond to what they have read. The case then is ready for argument, and a definitive sentence will be issued either in favor of the invalidity of the marriage in question, or upholding the validity of the marriage bond.  The Petitioner and his or her former spouse will be notified of the final decision of the Judges and will be given the opportunity to read the argument and the final decision before it is sent to the Appellate Court for ratification or comment.  In addition, a party who objects to the decision of the Tribunal has the right to appeal formally either to the Appellate Court of the Boston Province, or directly to Rome, for its review of the case.  Once ratified, the case is closed, the parties are notified of the outcome, and if appropriate are given the decree.  Sometimes special conditions are attached to a decision and must be fulfilled before a party may enter into subsequent marriage in a Catholic Church.  A lengthier discussion of the process may be found on our "Single Again & Annulments" Web page. 

Where can I find parish information and Mass times?

Click here to view our on-line directory of parishes, churches, schools, clergy, and maps.

Can the diocese offer any charitable support to me or my organization?

The Diocese of Manchester provides support to New Hampshire residents and charitable agencies through New Hampshire Catholic Charities and the Bishop’s Charitable Assistance Fund.

If you are an individual in need of help, visit New Hampshire Catholic Charities for information on what services they provide.

If you are a charitable organization looking for support, regardless of religious affiliation, learn more about the Bishop’s Charitable Assistance Fund.

Though we are unable to provide direct support for individuals and organizations outside of New Hampshire, the Diocese of Manchester does actively support a number of agencies that do.

For individuals in the rest of the U.S., visit Catholic Charities USA or your local Catholic Charities.

For charitable organizations in the U.S., visit the Catholic Campaign for Human Development.

Where can I find employment opportunities?

 Click here to find employment opportunities.

I am getting married soon and have questions about the marriage preparation process.

 Click here to find information about the marriage preparation process.

 I am interested in being confirmed or being baptized into the Catholic Church.

 Click here to find information about the initiation process of becoming a Catholic.

I have been away from the Church and am interested in returning. Where do I begin?

No matter how long you have been away and no matter the reason, we invite you to consider renewing or beginning your relationship with the Catholic Church. To speak with someone, contact Eileen Smith at 603 669-3100 ext. 174, or esmith@rcbm.org.

What are the Holy Days of Obligation?

Click here to learn more about the Holy Days of Obligation.

Where can I find directions to the Diocesan Administration Building?

Click here to find directions to the Diocesan Administration Building.