I’m not sure what you mean by “what type of ceremony was that?” Assuming the marriage was legal, it was certainly a valid marriage; the difference between that and the sealing ordinance is that the former is only valid “till death do you part” while the latter can be valid forever. Does that answer the question?   ETA: Okay, you added the part about the divorce. I think I understand a little better now. The Church recognizes that divorce is an extremely unfortunate occurrence, but also realizes that sometimes it’s the best option a couple has. Since your marriage was both initiated and ended per man’s law, nothing further needs to be done to make the divorce final in God’s eyes. Regarding your position before the Lord, it’s neither my place nor the place of the Church to judge whether or not your divorce was justified; that’s between you, your ex-spouse, and the Lord. If you’re genuinely concerned about your state before the Lord, I suggest you turn to the scriptures and see what He has to say. Turn to Him in prayer and discuss how His words apply to your particular situation. There are plenty of study helps available at http://scriptures.lds.org/helps , or you can check in the Topical Guide, Bible Dictionary, and Index in the back of your scriptures. Your bishop can also help you work through it, especially if the divorce was a result of any great sin that still requires your full repentance. Like I said, though, I can’t make that call. Take it to “the Big Man” and see what He has to say about it. Blessings!

A sealing happens inside of the temple, when both parties make certain covenants, and are sealed to each other for all eternity. B But our church buildings are allowed to be open to just about anyone who wants to get married, but for one reason or another can't/won't be able to get married inside the temple. This is merely a civil marriage, just like if you were to have it in another church, or in a courtyard, or anywhere else. And civil marriages are allowed to be contracted and broken by civil law. It's only the temple marriages that require church involvement. As for the church's belief on divorce, people are known to make dumb mistakes. Many people have gotten into marital relationships which they shouldn't have in the first place, and should probably pursue a divorce. However, the church believes it is wrong to get a divorce for any reason (such as, you'd like to pursue a relationship with someone else instead). But no one should get married with the intent of getting divorced later on.

I dunno about Mormons, but the Catholics only "get sealed" post mortem! ;-)