The Marriage Tribunal ministry is one part of the Church’s effort to express the mercy of Christ by offering hope and healing for those who suffer the consequences of broken marriages. By investigating cases and causes of marital failure, the Tribunal attempts to determine whether a marriage in question was a true marital union according to the expectations and teachings of the Church and whether the parties are still bound to the vows that they made.
The Tribunal of the Catholic Diocese of Columbus handles all marriage cases and other judicial procedures. Learn more on our Tribunal FAQ page.
Judicial Vicar: Very Rev. Robert Kitsmiller, M.Div., J.C.L.
Adjutant Judicial Vicar: Very. Rev. Dr. Hilary C. Ike, EdD, J.C.L.
Judge and Tribunal Director:
Jenna M. Cooper, J.C.L.
Diocesan Judges:
Rev. Msgr. John G. Johnson, JCD
Rev. Msgr. John K. Cody, J.C.L.
Rev. Mr. John Crerand, J.C.L.
Defenders of the Bond:
Mr. Daniel M. Shakal, J.C.L.
Promoter of Justice:
Rev. Mark J. Hammond, STL, J.C.L.
Tribunal Auditors/Notaries:
Mary Beth Krecsmar
Karen M. Kitchell
Edgar Vidales, JD
Sr. Mary Riya George, FIH
Rev. Sabu Vellarimattathil, J.C.L.
Tribunal Psychologists:
David Dietz, Ph.D.