It is important to realize that Convalidation is not merely a renewal of vows previously exchanged in a civil or non-catholic ceremony.  Re-opening the door to a sacramental marriage is a new act of consent by each spouse.  This new act of consent is essential to marriage, and the words that the couple expresses are the outward sign of the gift of self that they exchange.  Your sacramental marriage celebration may be celebrated within Mass or outside of Mass, depending on the particular situation of the couple. If both are Catholic, it is fitting that the convalidation be celebrated within Mass. If one spouse is not, the convalidation is celebrated outside of Mass. When a deacon leads the liturgy, the wedding is celebrated outside of Mass even when two Catholics marry.

Customarily, since the couple’s married life is a known and public fact and may have been so for many years, a simple celebration in the Chapel, with an invitation to close family and friends may seem more appropriate than a large celebration.