Divorce Ministry Training for Aspiring or Active Divorce Ministers, Clergy & Parish Staff

Divorce Ministry Training

Hosted by the Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston in partnership with Abounding Joy Ministry

Free • Live on Zoom • Register to receive the Zoom link

Sunday, April 26, 2026

Session 1: 12:30–2:00 PM Central Session 2: 2:10–3:50 PM Central

Divorce touches nearly every parish, yet many clergy, parish staff, and ministry leaders feel uncertain about how best to respond when someone comes forward hurting, confused, or afraid. What do you say? What should you avoid? How do you remain faithful to Church teaching while offering genuine compassion and hope?

This Divorce Ministry Training is designed to equip those who serve the Church with the confidence, clarity, and pastoral tools needed to accompany individuals and families affected by separation and divorce—without causing unintentional harm.

Whether you are discerning involvement in divorce ministry or already walking with people in crisis, this training will help you respond with wisdom, mercy, and truth.

Who should attend:

• Aspiring and active Divorce Ministry leaders

• Parish staff and pastoral associates

• Deacons and seminarians

• Clergy and those serving in ministry or leadership roles

• Anyone who encounters separated or divorced Catholics in their pastoral work

What you’ll gain:

• A clear understanding of the Church’s approach to divorce ministry—and why accompaniment is not an endorsement of divorce

• Practical guidance on how to listen well and respond pastorally in moments of crisis

• Insight into the spiritual and emotional realities faced by separated and divorced Catholics

• Tools to help individuals remain connected to Christ and the Church during a vulnerable season

• Greater confidence in knowing how to accompany, when to refer, and how to support long-term healing

This training recognizes the real pressures on parishes and offers practical, faithful approaches that respect parish capacity while ensuring no one feels forgotten or alone.

Free registration. Open to all who serve. Live on Zoom.

Come be encouraged, equipped, and strengthened for this important and growing area of pastoral care in the Church.