Class for couples seeking convalidation

Published: February 14, 2020

Register for Convalidation Class

Click on the button above to complete the registration form online. Please note that your registration is not complete until you mail your registration fee to the address provided. For more information, contact Elizabeth Reha at (501) 664-0340, ext. 373. 

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Convalidation classes are offered for couples who are married civilly (i.e., "outside the Catholic Church") and who wish to have a valid marriage recognized by the Church. Canon law requires that Roman Catholics marry according to sacred ritual before a priest or deacon, unless a dispensation (permission) is received from the Church beforehand.

If a Catholic does not observe this requirement and marries outside the Church, his or her marriage is not valid. Couples who wish to have their civil marriage recognized by the Church are asked to participate in a special marriage preparation program (including a convalidation class), complete marriage paperwork and have vows witnessed by a priest or deacon. 

With the approval of your pastor, register for the next Convalidation Class, Feb. 22 at St. John Catholic Center in Little Rock. This event is sponsored by the diocesan Family Life OfficeRegistration is required one week prior to the event. Online registration is not complete until the $60 registration is received. If you need to register after the deadline date, please contact Elizabeth Reha, director of family life, at (501) 664-0340, ext. 373.