Catholic Dictionary

Find accurate definitions of over 5,000 Catholic terms and phrases (including abbreviations). Based on Fr. John Hardon's Modern Catholic Dictionary, © Eternal Life. Used with permission.

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VALIDATION

The making valid of a mterimonial contract that had been null and void because of a diriment impediment. A validation requires that the impediment cease or be removed, and that the consent of both parties be renewed. If the impediment is not publicly known, the consent may be renewed in secret. If the impediment known only to one party, only he or she need renew the consent, provided the other party's consent has persevered. (Etym. Latin validus, strong, effective; from valere, to be strong.)