Congratulations on your upcoming Convalidation! This program is intended for those who are civilly married and wish to receive the Sacrament of Matrimony. The program consists of lecture-style half day workshops each presented by a marriage and family therapist and covers the topics of: Family of Origin; Communication; The Many Moods of Marriage. You can obtain the current brochure by clicking Convalidation 2024.
In order to receive a certificate of completion all couples are expected to attend sessions 1, 2, & 3. If the husband and/or wife have minor/dependent children from a previous relationship, they are also asked to attend session 4 on Blended Families.
Do we both have to attend?
In order to adequately prepare, sacramental preparation should always be done as a couple. Should extenuating circumstances exist that would prevent this from happening, please contact us for further discussion.
Do sessions have to be taken in order?
No. You’re welcome to attend sessions in any order.
What time do sessions begin and end?
Each session begins promptly at 9:00 a.m. and concludes at noon.
What is the cost?
The per couple cost is $145.00 for 4 sessions – $120.00 for 3 sessions. A $20 late fee applies to any session not reserved prior to the deadline.
What is included?
The fee includes all program materials and continental breakfast.
When is the program offered?
Each series of workshops is offered three (3) times throughout the year…Winter, Summer, and Fall.
2024 Schedule & Application Deadlines
Just a reminder…A late fee of $20 applies to any session not reserved prior to the deadline.
Session 1 – Family of Origins
January 13th (Deadline 1/5/24)
June 8th (Deadline 5/24/24)
September 14th (Deadline 8/30/24)
Session 2 – Communications
January 27th (Deadline 1/12/24)
June 22nd (Deadline 6/7/24)
September 28th (Deadline 9/13/24)
Session 3 – The Many Moods of Marriage
February 10th (Deadline 1/26/24)
July 13th (Deadline 6/28/24)
October 12th (Deadline 9/27/24)
Session 4 – Blended Families*
March 2nd (Deadline 2/16/24)
July 27th (Deadline 7/12/24)
October 26th (Deadline 10/11/24)
*This session is required if the husband and/or wife have minor/dependent children from a previous relationship.
Apply online by clicking here.
Please note: This is only the application process. Whether we can accommodate you depends on the availability at the time the application and payment are received.
Can we apply after the deadline has passed?
Yes…but just a reminder that a $20 late fee applies to each session not reserved prior to the application deadline and space is always subject to availability.
Should we check availability before submitting our registration?
Actually…it’s better to just submit your paperwork. Be mindful that couples are confirmed in the order applications are received. The time spent waiting for a response might be the difference between whether or not we can accommodate you, especially when space is limited. Penalties only go into effect once couples are confirmed.
How will we know if we’re confirmed?
Once your paperwork is processed, written notification will be sent to each e-mail address provided. This will acknowledge receipt of you application, confirm the date for which you are registered, and give any additional information you need to be aware of. Every attempt is made to accommodate couples for their preferred date
Where is the program held?
The program is typically held in St. Petersburg. On rare occasions we may have to change the location. To avoid any confusion, the address and any facility details will be included in your confirmation letter. Each session begins at 9:00 and ends at 12:00 noon.
Will childcare be available?
To comply with safe environment practices, regardless of age or circumstances we are unable to accommodate children during any session of this program.
Who do we contact if we have questions or need further assistance?
The Office of Marriage & Family Life is more than happy to assist you! Email is the best way to reach us. Please contact Debbie Alexander at deb@dosp.org or 727 – 341 – 6847.