Guidelines for Facilitators - Special Circumstances

Cohabitation || Convalidation || Second Marriage

CONVALIDATION
If a couple is seeking convalidation, they are asking to have their natural marriage become a sacramental one. If a couple is taking FACET, it seems likely that they have already discussed with the priest whether they need to check with the tribunal. If you have reason to believe that their marriage is a good one, then both the religion/spirituality section and the Catholic section of FACET should help them concentrate on those things that will change as they enter into a sacramental union.

In addition:

• Family of Origin—Item 8: Resolving issues with my family of origin will help my marriage. Is the fact that the marriage did not take place in the Catholic church originally an issue that needs to be resolved? Will the convalidation resolve it?
• Values—Items 40, 41, and 42: have to do with living out married life as a Catholic Christian couple. Having a shared spiritual life will help a couple live out their values. Giving to those less fortunate is a key value for all who belong to the church. Sharing values underlies a healthy, holy marriage.
• Habits—Item 50: If there is any question about addictive habits, statement #50 should be touched on, since marrying in the church is key at this moment in time.
• Sexuality/intimacy: If the couple was not prepared for a Catholic wedding, they may not be familiar with Natural Family Planning. Some information about NFP might be helpful.
• Commitment—Item 108: asking God's help to keep the commitment to their spouse, might be a new notion for the convalidating couple.
• Parenting—Item 141: will be pertinent if the couple has not been involved in church up to this time. Their getting married in the church may also involve having children instructed and baptized.