Surviving With Hope

(Surviving Divorce)

All marriages face problems, but, when those problems become, or seem to become, insurmountable, the couple may be faced with separation or divorce.  While this is a tragedy, it can seem even worse for Catholics.  Having made not only a legal commitment, but a sacramental one as well, the dissolution of the union is usually painful on many levels.
 
Unfortunately, a feeling that the Church has abandoned the couple may exacerbate this pain and suffering.  Misinformation, or, in many cases, a lack of information, may cause Catholics to believe they may not accept the Eucharist, or that they are actually unwelcome in the Church.  Adding this extra degree of isolation may deepen the sorrow and sense of hopelessness brought on by the divorce.
 
In fact, the Church is VERY interested in helping those who find themselves separated or divorced, regardless of whether or not they brought the divorce action.  St. Michael’s has resources for you if you are now separated or divorced, regardless of whether this has happened recently, or some time in the past.
 
We use a program called “Surviving Divorce”, which is also used by the Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston in their ministry.  Composed of twelve weekly meetings, each meeting will show a video segment, and then be followed by a small group discussion of the video’s content.  Topics include issues such as managing anger, gaining a fuller understanding of the Catholic Church’s teaching on marriage and divorce, dealing with your ex-spouse, etc.  We schedule two hours for each meeting, all of which take place on Tuesday evenings from 6:30 – 8: 30 p.m.  We meet on the St. Michael’s campus.  Note:  to build community, and help encourage privacy, no one will be added to the group after the second of the twelve meetings.
 
If you are struggling with the dissolution of your marriage, please come join us!

* Please note:  The uncertainty of timing for the relaxation of COVID-19 restrictions prevents me from scheduling a start date at this time.  Further, there are some health issues that might further delay the program.  Please rest assured that I will do everything in my power to start a new session as soon as possible.  I apologize for the extensive delays. 
 
For information please contact Larry Sorensen:  zlls04@gmail.com