PERVERSIONE. — It is the action or effect of perverting, that is, of corrupting or inducing someone to do what is improper. In general, the term denotes turning away from the right path; in the psychological field, p. is the disorder or alteration of some psychic function; in pathology, it refers to seeking lustful satisfaction outside the natural order (v. LUSSURIA); in the moral sphere, p. is any aberration from good morals or from right feeling in religious matters.
apostasy (v.), heresy (v.), and schism are also forms of p. Measures taken by the Church regarding perverse and immoral books (v. IMPRIMATUR; INDICE DEI LIBRI PROIBITI) are intended to prevent p. in the sphere of faith and morals. For the same reason, she prohibits Catholics from participating, at least actively, in sacred ceremonies (prayers, services, sermons, rites) performed by non-Catholics (heretics, schismatics, infidels) inside or outside their temples (v. COMUNICAZIONE NELLE COSE SACRE). This is also partly the reason why it is illicit, without necessity, Sacraments (v.) from an unworthy minister or from heretical or schismatic ministers, even when they would be capable of conferring them validly.
With regard to marriage, the Church openly advises against unions between Catholics and non-Catholics, even when the latter are merely heretics or schismatics (cann. 1060, 1070; cf. apostolic constitution Arcanum of Leo XIII, 10 February 1880). And even when she grants a dispensation, the Church requires the requisite guarantees (can. 1061 § 2) and does not permit liturgical solemnities in the celebration of the marriage (cann. 1102 §§ 1, 2; 1109 § 3).