Q: I am 75 and have been taking care of my husband since 2017, when he was diagnosed with late-stage Alzheimer’s. I have been celibate all this time. I am not getting any younger and tired of waiting. I have a friend who lost his wife two years ago and we want to get together. How will the Church react to this? — C.
Answered by Fr. Edward McIlmail, LC:
I’m sorry to hear about your husband’s condition.
As long as he is alive, you are still married to him. Your wedding vows call you to be faithful to him.
At this stage of your life, you don’t want to risk your soul and cause scandal by committing adultery.
Your example of fidelity can be a powerful testimony to those around you.
It might be good to intensify your prayers for yourself and your husband, so that someday you can spend eternity together in heaven. Eternity draws nearer every day.
And stay close to the sacraments, too. You need them to help you resist temptation.