Is there any benefit to the renewal of marriage vows?

[MarthaJ]

Hello Fr. Serpa,

I am a cradle Catholic, and was married in the Catholic Church 29 years ago. My husband had no faith background. After many years of disharmony and pain in our marriage my husband converted to Catholicism. Now, after living our faith and marriage as it should have been all those years, we feel we truly understand the meaning and sacredness of our vows. My question is, is there any spiritual benefit to renewing one’s wedding vows, or is the ceremony merely symbolic? I have heard differing opinions from priests and wonder what the Catholic Church’s opinion is on this practice. I know we were truly married 29 years ago, despite all the difficulties, but feel that we both now would express these vows more deeply, a way in which we would fully be respecting and honoring of this most holy sacrament.

Thank you, Fr. Serpa, for your work, prayers and blessings.

 

[Fr.Vincent_Serpa]

Hi,

The renewal of marriage vows is symbolic. If a marriage is valid it can’t be made ore valid. However, renewing one’s marriage vows can be a very effective reminder to the couple and all those present of the significance of the sacrament and how the power of God has brought the couple to such a milestone.

I celebrated the Mass and received my parents’ renewal of vows on their fiftieth wedding anniversary. It was very powerful.

Fr, Vincent Serpa, O.P.