Separated/Divorced Support

The Catholic Church has a rich treasury of people, scripture, tradition and pastoral ministry on which to draw to serve those whose marriages end in divorce.

We at the Newman Center strive to open this wealth and make known Christ’s abundant love so that all who suffer from separation and divorce might experience healing, reconciliation, and new life.

We also recognize that as a separated and divorced person - through your vulnerability, suffering, courage, faithfulness, and patient endurance - you bear witness to Christ and his redeeming grace in the world.

You are not mere recipients of the Church’s compassion; you are, as well, ministers of that compassion.

Join us in an open and friendly environment for spiritual encouragement, friendship, support, and healing.

Divorced Care Support Group– Separated and Divorced individuals are invited to join us on Thursday evenings, 6:00 – 7:30PM in Cardinal Newman Hall, room 105.

 Other Resources:

Beginning Experience: A retreat weekend for the Widowed – Separated – Divorced. Help for the heartache of finding yourself alone again - a weekend away for a lifetime of change. For information go to: www.beginningexperience.org.

Annulments Catholics and others who wish to marry in the Catholic Church but have previous marriages may be required to petition for an annulment of their previous marriage.

This petition involves answering questions about one's previous marriage, choosing witnesses who can testify (in writing) about the marriage in question and submitting baptismal, marriage and divorce documents.

The process may take anywhere between 6-8 months before a decision is made. Each case is investigated by a canon lawyer of the Diocese of Fresno's Tribunal who also writes the decision for or against the annulment.

Once the annulment is granted, a person is usually free to marry in the Church. For more information about the annulment of a previous marriage, please contact the parish office.