If I Build It, Will You Come? The Journey of Hope Conference For Divorce Recovery

Going through a divorce is often equated with losing a spouse through death, and while there are some similarities, there are some striking differences. For example, when a spouse dies, the surviving spouse is showered with sympathy cards, meals, flowers, prayers and people checking in to make sure he or she is okay. But, when a spouse walks out and files for divorce, none of this happens and many times the one left behind experiences the exact opposite of what a widow or widower would; disdainful attitudes from others, alienation from friends or neighbors, no one checking in to see if they’re okay.

As Catholics, we know divorce is wrong. But it’s important to take into consideration that even though some spouses decide to ignore that and go do it anyway, in most cases, the spouses they leave behind did not want the divorce; they were forced into it by the no-fault divorce laws in their state, or they were forced to choose that option to save themselves and their children from some sort of abuse.

Our response to the many Catholics in situations like these should be one of helpful compassion and a sincere desire to help them stay close to their faith. The men and women who are suffering because of divorce need to know of Christ’s undying love and mercy for them in their suffering. Pope Francis considers the Church as a field hospital and we must be the workers out in that field, helping the wounded into the hospital.

This is why I write books and articles, do coaching and offer parish support programs, and especially why I offer conferences for divorce recovery. In 2010 and 2011, I held the Journey of Hope conferences in Atlanta, GA, and they drew people from all over the United States, Canada and even Mexico. They were powerful events for many reasons, but I think they had such an impact primarily because the people who attended were starving for interaction with people who understood what they were going through and they received that. They wanted to feel welcome among fellow Catholics and have the opportunity to listen to speakers who could provide consolation, guidance, and a reminder that they were still important members of the community despite what had happened.

Why am I telling you all this? Because I’m gearing up to offer the next Journey of Hope conference and if you are divorced, or know someone who is, I’d like to offer you the chance to tell me what is important to you in an event like this. What has your struggle been like? What are the issues you are trying to overcome? What would you want to get out of a conference designed especially for you?

If you have a few moments to take a brief 10-question survey, I would love to hear from you. My goal is to design a conference that meets the needs of so many people suffering from divorce and what you have to say would greatly benefit me in doing this. Just click here.

If you, personally, are not divorced but know someone who is, I hope you will consider forwarding this article to them so they can give me their opinion.

One important note: Because people who go through a divorce typically have challenging financial situations, I am working hard to keep registration fees low and still provide quality speakers, food, and an overall powerful experience. As part of my efforts to do this, I have a GoFundMe campaign to raise funds to help pay for the conference costs.

Whether you take the quick survey or visit my GoFundMe campaign, I want you to know I am grateful beyond words because your response will directly effect people who are suffering and in need. Thank you for your consideration and anything you may do.