Divorce and loss of loved ones has touched nearly every Catholic family in America. It is a painful process that affects every facet of human existence, a process in which many are hurt.

This ministry was established by Bishop Cummins of the Diocese of Oakland in 1978 through the Family Life Office because divorced, widowed and separated Catholics and their children are an integral part of the diocesan family. By cultivating a unique relationship with God in such times of trial, this ministry strives to facilitate emotional, psychological and spiritual growth through the stages of grief and healing, and to educate others to the importance of the widowed, divorced and separated remaining active in the life of the church.

The Ministry
The apostolate to divorced, widowed and separated is largely a peer ministry of women and men undergoing renewal while bringing healing and God’s blessing to one another. While most of the groups are facilitated by parishioners who have themselves experienced divorce and undergone facilitator training, there are also programs that are professionally directed Combined together, both approaches provide creative opportunities and support systems for diverse stages of healing.

The Divorced Ministry offers help in:

• Pastoral Care
• Spiritual Formation
• Education and Training

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