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Marriage Convalidation

MarriageEFLM

How do I receive Convalidation?

The following information is intended to give a basic overview of the convalidation process. Because every couple’s situation is unique, persons interested in pursuing a convalidation and/or a declaration of nullity should speak with their pastor or direct specific questions to the Metropolitan Tribunal and Office of Canonical Affairs.

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What is Convalidation?

A convalidation is needed when one or two baptized Catholics enter a marriage which is invalid and the couple now wishes to make the marriage valid. Indeed, convalidation is a new act of consent, which constitutes the beginning of the marriage in the eyes of the Church; it is not merely a blessing.

Typically, the marriage was invalid due to lack of form, which means that a Catholic did not observe the canonical form of marriage (consent exchanged before an authorized priest/deacon and two witnesses) and did not receive a dispensation to do so.  In other words, the couple was married in a non-Catholic ceremony (e.g., before a justice of the peace, minister, rabbi, etc.) without an exemption from the Catholic Church.

Keep in mind that the canonical form of marriage is required only when the marriage involves at least one Catholic party. If your marriage was formed between two non-Catholics and, consequently, was celebrated outside of a Catholic ceremony, you do not need to seek convalidation, even when one or both parties are entering the Church. The marriage is considered valid since the form was appropriate to your status at that time.

Couples Seeking Convalidation

Please speak to your pastor before taking any classes.

Convalidation | Marriage Prep Courses

For couples seeking convalidation, marriage preparation is always required, but the content and method of preparation can vary depending on the circumstances. The Pastor may use his own discretion in ensuring that the couple is prepared theologically and spiritually for marriage.

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REFOCCUS | Inventory

A couple who has been married civilly can benefit greatly from the REFOCCUS Inventory which specially addresses couples who already have marriage experience. Your Marriage Preparer may facilitate a REFOCCUS session.

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Natural Family Planning

According to the Archdiocese’s guidelines, a course in NFP is generally required for all couples capable of conceiving children. If applicable, your marriage preparer will present you with the moral and practical elements of NFP and connect you with a teaching practitioner.

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