Q: I am talking to someone online. He is from another country and would like to marry me. This is one of the easiest ways he could get a visa in order for us to live together. I would love to marry him, as he is a good Christian man. However, I know marriage is not something to be taken lightly. I told him that I want to pray a novena first and see if God wants us to marry, then we can. I would like to ask you, what sign should I ask to show me if God wants me to marry this man? Thank you. – C.
Answered by Fr. Edward McIlmail, LC
A: It would be good to be extremely careful about getting involved with relationships like this, especially with someone who is looking for a visa to enter the country.
A lot of women have been burned by men who claimed to love them and proposed to them online.
This isn’t a judgment against this man. It’s just that many men have manipulated women to gain entry into a country, only to abandon the women at the first opportunity.
In any case, the Church requires a marriage-preparation course for couples. Besides, online communication is no substitute for face-to-face encounters when it comes to courtship.
It might be good to speak with your pastor. It would also be good to speak with your confessor and a trusted family member. Count on my prayers.
