Diocese of San Jose celebrates marriage convalidations

The Diocese of San Jose has completed a series of marriage convalidations for dozens of couples who were previously married only civilly. Led by Bishop Oscar Cantú and program director Jose Soto, the initiative helped couples enter the sacrament of matrimony to participate fully in the sacramental life of the Church.

The program grew from a small pilot project into a larger effort after many local families registered for the service. To accommodate the high volume of participants, diocesan bishops presided over communal Masses on July 25, August 1, and September 26, while also holding private ceremonies for couples who requested them.

Jose Soto, the director for Adult Spirituality and Family Life, started the program after noticing many couples attended Mass with their children but did not receive Communion due to their marital status. The initiative used the name Radiate Love, adapted from a 2024-2025 campaign by California bishops to promote marriage and family. Soto formed a task force of several couples to help organize the events throughout the year.