From civil union to sacred bond: California diocese celebrates marriage convalidations

The Diocese of San Jose has held several ceremonies to convalidate the marriages of couples previously joined only by civil unions. Led by Bishop Oscar Cantú, the program grew from a small pilot project into a large scale effort after many local families registered to enter the sacrament of matrimony.

Jose Soto, the director for Adult Spirituality and Family Life, started the program after observing many couples attending Mass with their children but refraining from receiving the Eucharist due to their marital status. The diocese adapted the name of the California bishops' 2024-2025 Radiate Love campaign for this task force.

Because of the high number of participants, the diocese held communal Masses presided over by bishops on July 25, August 1, and September 26. The diocese also provided separate private ceremonies for couples who requested them.