Divorce healing sessions offered virtually

By DAWN PROSSER
Director of Communications
 
An ongoing partnership between the diocesan Office of Faith Formation and the Abounding Joy Ministry is providing another faith-based opportunity to help with healing for separated and divorced individuals.
 
Abounding Joy is offering an online session for support and healing May 19 at 7 p.m. and May 21 at 9 p.m. at no cost. Participants can select either option that fits their schedule.
 
“On a pretty consistent basis we have had parishes reach out to us asking for some guidance for divorce ministry,” Karmen Bower, director of faith formation, explained.
 
She pointed out that parishes may have offered a version of divorce ministry throughout the years, but for some, “it’s really challenging to develop a sustainable model of something that can be offered on a consistent basis.”
 
Abounding Joy consistently offers opportunities for individuals seeking healing and support, Bower stressed. A 12-week online Catholic workshop, Build a New Life, was offered to parishioners earlier this year at a special rate through the partnership. Certified Catholic divorce healing coach Carolyn Klika Catino led the workshop.
 
Bower“The wonderful thing about these events coming up – they are free and it’s a very low commitment,” Bower said. “No matter where someone might be in their healing from going through something like a divorce or a separation, or they’re in a very difficult point in their marriage, wherever they are it’s a chance to have an evening to open our hearts a little bit to how God might be able to insert his grace into our lives to offer some healing.” 

For anyone unsure about participating in the support and healing nights, they are encouraged to register as they will receive the recording of the session to watch at their convenience in the privacy of their home.
 
In addition to participating as an individual, the director encourages groups to gather and view the program together at a parish hall or something similar.
 
“It’s an excellent option for parishes who do have some people who want to work through that together and have the benefits of group sharing,” Bower said.
 
As there is a need for ongoing divorce ministry in some parishes, Bower pointed out that there are online trainings available for anyone who is interested in divorce ministry training. There are sessions available May 13 and 14.
 
“For anyone who has a heart for that ministry or wants to dip their toe in the water and see what it’s all about, that would be a good option,” she said, noting the training is free.
 
Whether looking for support and healing or for divorce ministry training, Bower said the May offerings provide a good opportunity and a chance to learn more about Abounding Joy’s offerings and Klika Catino’s approach.
 
To register or to learn more about the May programs, go to www.scdiocese.org/divorce.