Question: Real-life scenario: a 13-year-old makes a vow to God not to play Mortal Kombat ever again as long as God relieves the temporary pain and discomfort they had. He did this also because, at the time, he felt the video game might have been interfering with his homework. The person was not confirmed, and the vow was taken without deliberation. The vow has caused regret and much anxiety to the person who made it. Should the vow continue to be honored?
— Name withheld, via email
Answer: Generally, vows to undertake life-long actions made at age 13 are not a good idea. Some degree of maturity is required for such significant actions, which is not assumed at age 13. A vow should be both free and take place after deliberation. But, as you note, the vow was made on the spur of the moment and in a kind of desperation, without the counsel of an adult or mentor. As such, the honoring of such a vow is subject to review. Since the vow was made to God, it is appropriate to ask a pastor or confessor to dispense one from a vow.
The Catechism of the Catholic Church says, “The Church can, in certain cases and for proportionate reasons, dispense from vows and promises” (No. 2103). It seems in this case, that the best solution then is to talk to a priest and ask that the vow be commuted or lifted.
