|
|
Director: Mrs. Cornella Berger, 831-3725
THE APOSTOLATE OF FAMILY MINISTRY ENCOMPASSES THREE AREAS OF CARE AND SUPPORT FOR THOSE IN NEED. THE GROUPS ARE AS FOLLOWS: STEPHEN MINISTRY, RAINBOWS FOR ALL GOD'S CHILDREN, BEREAVEMENT MINISTRY TEAM, GRIEF SUPPORT GROUPS, MARRIAGE PREPARATION, ANNULMENT PROCESS AND HOPE IN YOUTH.
Grief Support Group (Click on the link)
STEPHEN MINISTRY
History: The first group of
volunteers known as Stephen Ministers was formed in October, 1988.
Trained members of the parish are available to those in need - the lonely, ill,
grieving - all those experiencing periods of stress in life.
RAINBOWS FOR ALL GOD'S CHILDREN
History: Rainbows is a support group for children who have suffered a significant loss in their lives, either by death, divorce or other painful transitions. Rainbows is a twelve week program offering children an opportunity to meet others who have had similar experiences. Trained, caring and loving adults facilitate these groups and provide support, allowing the children to sort through their feelings and understand their grief.
To make every effort to expand the Rainbow Support Group Program allowing groups to meet continually during the school year.
BEREAVEMENT MINISTRY TEAM
History: Our Bereavement Team consists of specially trained persons who meet with the family when they have lost a loved one to death. Since 1986, the team has organized a special concelebrated liturgy on or close to November 2, to remember all parishioners who have died during the preceding twelve months. The names of the deceased are placed on a scroll which remains near the sanctuary throughout the month of November.
One of the team members meets with the family, reflects on the life of the loved one and plans the Funeral Liturgy to remember the person who has died. Appropriate scripture readings and music are selected with any family member who wishes to participate. The Memorial Mass takes place on November 1st or 2nd.
GRIEF SUPPORT GROUPS
History: Initiated in 1988 for the support of those who have lost a loved one in death. Six week sessions are held in the fall and in the spring, open to every person who is grieving. Focus is placed on the realization that every one grieves in a different manner and that there is no set time to recover from the loss of a loved one.
All are welcome to attend. There is no charge for the Sessions. Registration is required.
Registration: Call Family Ministry - (310)
831-3725, or
Dora Zaccaria (310) 833-5719 or
Pauline Cleary (310) 547-5287.
MARRIAGE PREPARATION
History: This program was introduced in 1993 with the initiation of the FOCCUS inventory for engaged couples. Supervise the preparation of engaged couples through the administration of the FOCCUS inventory. Facilitate the counseling of couples regarding FOCCUS. Given on the first Tuesday of each month.
ANNULMENT PROCESS
History: Family Ministry is available to help those who wish to obtain a declaration of nullity. We guide couples through the entire process while dealing with the Tribunal as their advocate. Each marriage situation and application for annulment is handled with support and confidentiality.