How do we heal and even grow from the trauma of divorce?
Elisabeth Kübler-Ross’s landmark book, “On Death and Dying,” is an excellent resource to help understand the grieving stages of a divorce. In addition to the 5 stages she identifies, we also elaborate on 5 more stages unique to divorce. Finally, we must recognize and face significant wounds that occur when a marriage dies. Recognizing and embracing these provides the opportunity for people to heal and even grow.
What if I can’t afford the Seminar registration fee?
Our registration fees do not actually cover the cost of the Seminar. Thanks to generous support from our partner churches and individual donors, we can keep our registration fees low. We are very committed to helping those experiencing divorce, whether fees are in the budget or not. We never want someone to be unable to attend the seminar simply because their divorce has put them in a tough spot financially. Our registration includes a Scholarship option which allows us to provide scholarships when needed. Please don’t hesitate to contact us by email if you have a scholarship need or have any questions.
Do you condone divorce?
No more than the Bible condones sin by offering grace. On the one hand, we elevate the marriage relationship to understand why divorce is so difficult and painful. On the other, we also strive to communicate that divorce is not unforgivable or a place where people are stuck. Rather it is an opportunity to touch people in the deepest realities of their brokenness.
What can I expect to get out of the Seminar?
Understanding, empathy, grace, truth, and a way to move forward.
Does my divorce need to be final before attending?
No, people attend who are in all stages of the process – separated, considering divorce, in the process of divorce, divorced recently or divorced for many years. Insights and healthy perspectives about the impact of divorce can be gained at any of these stages.
What if I have been divorced for many years and even have another relationship?
Everyone heals at a different pace. What’s important is that if you feel like your previous marriage and divorce issues continue to impact your life, then this ministry can be valuable.
What about people of different faiths or even no faith? Will they be comfortable?
We’ve had people attend from other faiths and those who don’t know if or what they believe. While we are unapologetic about our Christian perspective, we do sincerely respect others. We’ve never had feedback from someone who was offended by their experience.
If I initiated my divorce, will I still be accepted?
Yes, no one is asked who initiated his/her divorce. Everyone is treated equally. In many cases, we have found that the person who initiates the divorce does so because their spouse refuses to change very destructive behaviors, whether they are physical or emotional behaviors; the initiator feels cornered. They either accept a lifetime of pain or choose to divorce to salvage what is left of their life.
Do men and women sit together?
Not during the core seminar. Men and women are seated at separate tables and given opportunities to share, facilitated by a trained leader. We’ve found that these initial discussions are best conducted in gender-specific settings.
Tell me about the follow-up groups that begin after the seminar.
These are held at various ‘partner churches’ in the area to make them EASILY accessible. Dates and times are different for each location but will be announced at the seminar and posted on the website. Like the seminar, they are facilitated by trained leaders. But unlike the seminar, they are co-ed so that men and women can learn from each other.
Do you have to go to the seminar to attend the small groups?
No, but it is highly encouraged. The seminar is designed to expose people to the basics of recovery upon which the small groups build. However, if a person can’t attend the seminar, they are still welcomed to join a small group.
Questions? Feel free to drop us an email.