By ERIC GIRTEN
THE CATHOLIC KITCHEN
Brothers and Sisters in Jesus Christ,
As we enter into a new year, I want to again highlight some of the programs that fall under the Office of (Marriage) Family & Life here in the diocese. Some of these projects and programs have occurred for some time while others are new. Please feel free to contact me if you wish to participate in, volunteer with or support any of them. It is my pleasure to be able to work with many of you to create these opportunities to experience Jesus Christ in our midst.
- Peace in the Mourning
- This is a small-group, healing day for widows of all ages that will be held on March 25 at the Catholic Center. (see registration link below)
- Unveiled Retreats
- These retreats are marriage-preparation opportunities for engaged couples. 2023 retreats will be held in March, May and September at SARTO Retreat Center. (see registration link below)
- Joy Filled Marriage and For Better For Ever
- These programs are parish-based marriage-preparation opportunities and can be utilized throughout the year.
- FOCCUS
- This is a marriage-preparation inventory that provides engaged couples the opportunity to think about and discuss relationship topics
- Wisdom Days
- These events occur annually in the fall of the year in Vincennes, Dubois County (Jasper), and Evansville (currently without a planning committee). They are days of food, speakers, entertainment and prizes for our +55 Catholics.
- Natural Family Planning
- NFP information is provided to engaged couples, married couples, singles, and young adults in our community through the Holy Family Center for Life. NFP is a natural and effective way of planning your family.
- Respect Life Celebration
- This event occurs annually (October) and includes Mass at St. Benedict Cathedral with Bishop Joseph Siegel. This is followed by dinner and a speaker.
- Grace Marriage
- This is a parish-level marriage-enrichment program where couples get together every three months for a few hours and reflect/pray/discuss issues pertaining to their marriages.
- Surviving Divorce
- This is a parish-level support program for Catholics who have lived through divorce and are at a place to begin the healing process.
- Life Giving Wounds/Adult Children of Divorce
- This is a diocesan-level program for adult children of divorced or separated parents.
- Red Bird Ministry (and Mass of Remembrance in November)
- This program works with parents who have experienced the loss of a child at any age.
- Gabriel Project
- This program provides assistance to mothers and families who may be in crisis pregnancies or may need additional assistance for their young children.
- Pregnancy Care Centers
- There are many organizations within the Diocese of Evansville that encourage pregnant mothers to choose life for their babies and provide the support necessary to make this decision possible.
- Foster Care/Adoption
- Foster care and adoption are family decisions of great importance and the Diocese is working to create support systems and raise awareness in this area.
- Project Rachel
- This ministry provides support, resources and healing for those whose lives have been impacted by abortion. The phone number to call is 812-483-7812.
Current Registrations now open
Peace in the Mourning: https://www.osvhub.com/evdio/forms/peace-in-the-mourning
Unveiled: https://www.osvhub.com/evdio/forms/2023-unveiled-retreat-registration
For more details, contact Eric Girten at [email protected]