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Convalidation is not just a blessing of an existing civil or non-Catholic marriage. It is the exchange of new, free consent in the presence of a Catholic priest or deacon so that your marriage becomes a valid and sacramental union in the eyes of the Church.

WHEN IS CONVALIDATION NEEDED

A convalidation is needed when at least one spouse is Catholic, and the marriage took place outside the Church without a dispensation from canonical form (for example, before a judge or non-Catholic minister).

Why a Sacramental Marriage Matters

In the Event of A Prior MarrIAge

Any previous marriage, whether or not you were married in the Catholic Church, must be addressed before convalidation. A declaration of nullity (annulment) or proof of the former spouse’s death is required. For help determining what is needed, contact Betty Kimbrough at 972-398-5402 or by emailing [email protected].

STEPS Towards Convalidation 

1. Contact the Parish Office. Call Susan Ozowski by email [email protected] or by calling 972-398-5418 to begin the convalidation process. You will be asked to provide some basic information about yourself and your spouse, and have an opportunity to schedule a meeting with the priest.
   
   
2. Participate in Pre-Marriage Preparation. Attend a one-day formational session of the Diocese of Dallas called Living Your Marriage as a Sacrament.
   
   
3. Obtain the required documents. 
   • Newly Issued Copy of Baptismal Certificate. Baptized Catholics must obtain newly issued baptismal certificates (dated within the last six months) with notations from the parish where they were baptized. Your original certificate, issued shortly after your baptism, will not be accepted for convalidation. For non-Catholics, a certificate of baptism is acceptable as proof of baptism.
   • Affidavit of Free Status. The Affidavit of Free Status is a form that asks one of the parents or another relative/party who has known you since adolescence to be a witness to the fact that you are free to marry. Both the bride and groom are required to submit this form. 
   • Civil Marriage License.  Please provide a copy of your legal marriage license.
   • Decree of Nullity. If one or both of you have been married before, you will need to supply a Decree of Nullity, indicating an annulment of the previous marriage.
   • Certificate of Completion. A copy of the Certificate of Completion for the preparation class, Living Your Marriage as a Sacrament.
     
     
4. Schedule Your Ceremony. Choose your wedding date and type of ceremony. For two Catholics, a nuptial Mass is recommended so the couple’s first shared meal is the Eucharist. Plan a joyful celebration afterward to honor the Church’s recognition of your marriage.
   
   
5. Prepare Spiritually. Celebrate Reconciliation and participate in parish life together as your convalidation approaches.