Does anyone know what is needed for a Convalidation cermony in a Catholic Church?

Question

My husband and I were married in a chapel in Vegas and want to have our marriage renewed in the Catholic Church. Someone told me that I would have to have a ceremony called Convalidation. Does this mean we need to have best man and maid of honor again? I would like a better understanding of what is all involved with a Convalidation ceremony.

Answer 1

Congratulations! What you are doing at the Convalidation is actually receiving the sacrament of Matriomony. This is pure church stuff, so you don't have to have any witnesses to sign the marriage contract (traditionally the job of the best man and maid of honor.)

The liturgy will look very much like a regular Catholic wedding service (or mass, if you choose to go that way). There are readings and a homily and some sort of exchange of vows, because what you are doing is confirming your marriage and having it blessed by the church. (By the way, the cool thing about this sacrament is that you and your husband actually give it to each other - the priest is merely an official witness.)

This article is fairly recent and will give you a good starting point: http://www.americancatholic.org/Newsletters/CU/ac0604.asp It is official Catholic teaching and all that, so be ready for some of the "stricter" Vatican language. But I would be surprised if you had any real problems. Make an appointment with a priest to discuss what would be involved.

Answer 2

Congratulations!! the convalidation is not like a wedding. Like a previous poster said. You need two witnesses and a priest. If you want you can wear a wedding dress.

Answer 3

You do need a witness or two and a priest to do the ceremony. If you don't like the first priest you talk to, it is OK to talk to another.

Answer 4

It's always best to call your local parishoner and ask any question. Look in the directory if you don't have the number.