FAQs

Question

What is a Convalidation Ceremony?

Answer

A convalidation is the process by which a couple in a civil marriage, that is not valid in the Church, exchanges new vows, making their marriage canonically valid and, if both are baptized, a sacrament. This is not merely a blessing of an existing union but a new act of consent and the true beginning of a sacramental marriage.

Question

How is a Convalidation Ceremony different from a typical Wedding Ceremony?

Answer

For the ceremony, a convalidation is a true celebration of the Sacrament of Marriage, and so it follows the one Catholic Church’s Order of Celebrating Matrimony. The rite may be celebrated within Mass or outside of Mass, depending on the particular situation of the couple. If both are Catholic, the nuptial Mass is recommended so that the first meal shared by the sacramentally married couple is the Eucharist, the source and summit of our faith.

Question

Why convalidate an already legal marriage?

Answer

By Church law, baptized Catholics are ordinarily required to marry before a priest or deacon. If a Catholic marries in another setting (for example, before a judge or a minister of another faith) without a dispensation, that marriage is not considered valid in the eyes of the Church. One of the many benefits of a sacramental marriage is the power of God’s grace, which helps couples keep their commitment and find happiness together. Social scientists are finding that couples who recognize God’s presence in their relationship experience more satisfaction and are more likely to achieve lifelong marriage. All in all, couples who choose to bring their marriage into the Church receive many gifts – peace of heart, oneness with the Church, the fullness of the sacraments, and God’s special blessing upon their marriage.

Question

Are children welcome in the ceremony? What if they can't sit still?

Answer

Jesus said "“Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.” (Matthew 19:14) As children are a true blessing of married life, we should include them as witnesses in the ceremony, not only as an example of God’s work in the world but as a reminder to others to experience through their eyes the joy, excitement and pureness of the covenant of marriage to strengthen their own marriages and encourage the union of other couples. Your wiggly, crying, running, silly, too-loud children are openly welcomed and accepted. Children often find a wedding fascinating, so help them to get a good view – they may stand out in the aisle, or, with a parent’s help to keep them safe, even stand on their seat to watch. Be ready to answer questions from children about what is happening in each part of the service. We will provide kid-friendly picture programs & crayons. Please feel free to stand up and walk around the church. Children often love lighting a candle in the offertory or admiring the stained glass windows. The doors will not be locked, so you can come & go as needed throughout the ceremony if your little ones just need a break outside.

Question

Is there a dress code for the church?

Answer

We suggest 'Church Attire' or 'Dressy Casual'. The church is a sacred space for us, so we aim for a look that is respectful but still ready for a celebration! We ask that ladies cover their shoulders with a shawl or jacket, if wearing a sleeveless dress. Please see the Gallery for examples.

Question

Why are there so many Bible readings during the ceremony?

Answer

The 'Liturgy of the Word' is a vital part of the ceremony where God speaks to us through Holy Scripture. We have carefully chosen these readings because they highlight the biblical foundation of marriage, the importance of sacrificial love, and the joy of a life lived in Christ.