Marriage Validation

This process, in accordance with Canon Law # 1161 §1 is called a "radical sanation" (in Latin "sanatio in radice") which means "healing in the root." It can be obtained in cases where there are no existing impediment such as a previous marriage that would require an annulment. A "radical sanation" is the healing of an invalid marriage so that the marriage becomes a recognized marriage in accordance with the Canon Laws of the Church. This is done without a ceremony.

After obtaining a "radical sanation," the Catholic party can now receive the Sacraments of the Catholic Church, including the Holy Eucharist during Holy Mass.

Certain conditions must apply before a "radical sanation" can take place. They are:

A. Both parties must have the intent of persevering in their conjugal life. Otherwise a "radical sanation" cannot be granted.

B. Both parties (a) must have consented to the marriage (b) at the same time. This simultaneous consent had to include all the essential requirements of a valid marriage (e.g. monogamy, fidelity, permanence and openness to children). This consent must still exist at present unless one party has indicated otherwise.

C. Any impediments that are present, they must be taken care of. In many cases, such is achieved by obtaining a "radical sanation." When marrying outside the Catholic Church, such as before a Justice of the Peace, the marriage was invalid because of a "Defect of Form." That means that the parties failed to obtain a dispensation from the Bishop for a marriage ceremony outside of the Catholic Church.

Some impediments cannot be dispensed. For example, if one of the spouses was married before and a decree of nullity (annulment) has not been obtained, then the previous marriage is still valid. If the previous spouse has died, then the impediment has been removed and the "radical sanation" can proceed.

D. Couple will need to attend "Today-Tomorrow-Forever" enrichment program at the Diosese.

"Today-Tomorrow-Forever"
Click here to go to Diocese WEB Site

Tribunal Sanation Document

To begin the process please print and complete the  "Tribunal Sanation Document" above and schedule a meeting with Deacon Joe Standridge. You will also need to bring copies of both husband and wife baptismal certificates with notations.  Baptismal certificate must be dated no more six months before the Sanation request. You will also need to bring a certified copy of the original marriage license.

Please contact Deacon Joe Standridge at 940-220-7160 or jstandridge@stmarkdenton.org with any questions about the process.  He is available to meet with you and guide you through the process.