Divorced. Catholic. Now What?
I just finished reading this book and am anxious to tell you all about it. The authors are both Catholics who have experienced divorce. You can read more about them at DivorcedCatholic.com.The book consists of 252 pages split into 17 chapters. So it s a fairly short book but it is jam -packed with important information! I wish I'd had this book 6 years ago when my divorce was final... or even before that when I was separated. At any rate, I m very glad to have it NOW! As you can tell, I liked this book and HIGHLY recommend it to YOU. But why?Being a practicing Catholic is not an easy role in our society. I would venture to say that it becomes even more difficult after a divorce. I mean, Catholics aren't supposed to divorce! I'm sure that anyone who goes through a divorce feels like something of a failure but a divorced CATHOLIC?! Good grief...now there's a failure for you. (No, I don't think this is true - just giving a possible impression).On top of that, if you are TRULY practicing your faith, you know that you cannot remarry in the Church unless you first receive a Declaration of Nullity of your marriage (yet another trial to face) - and if you re a truly practicing Catholic, you definitely don t want to marry outside of the Church. So, here you are divorced and experiencing the hell and loneliness of that. Society tells you to pursue relationships as soon as possible in order to bolster your self esteem and soothe some of the horrid loneliness and rejection that you feel. Not only that, but you re told to also pursue sexual intimacy in those relationships for the same reasons and, again, as soon as possible. And, actually, those suggestions sound like just what you need and want!But wait...you're Catholic...a practicing Catholic...so not all of those options are really options for YOU. (and for good reasons) BOTHER! Now What?!Lisa and Vince did an amazing job of covering every aspect of what a divorced Catholic goes through. The Church's position is also detailed and explained very well. Then they go on to suggest ways of navigating all the trials and tribulations of divorce while remaining true to the faith. This book is inspirational and motivational...and challenging.My divorce was final 6 1/2 years ago. I received a Declaration of Nullity 2 years ago. I haven't remarried but hope to one day. In the meantime, I want to remain true to my faith and this book has helped me to be stronger. I m sure I ll need to reread parts of it for a shot in the arm now and then (i.e. often!). You know how it is very comforting to be in the company of people who share beliefs that are very important to you? This is what this book did for me...it made me feel supported and it reaffirmed my beliefs - beliefs that are looked upon as rather bizarre in our society. It also challenged me but gave me hope at the same time. I know that s all very general so here are some details...Each chapter follows the same format:* An introduction to the subject of that chapter* The Case - a short narrative from a person about their experience regarding this subject* A discussion of the subject* Concluding Thoughts* Now What? - a discussion of some steps you might take next* A Meditation consisting of a bible passage, a prayer, a petition, a little more discussion, then a closing prayer.* A Resolution - a shorter Now What? section consisting of just one next step  * And, finally, Suggested ReadingsNow that I ve read my copy through once, I m eager to pass it on to a close friend. I think I ll be ordering a couple more copies to have on hand to give away to friends who find themselves experiencing this hell called divorce. --Manya, DivorcedCatholicMoms.comThe book is excellent. Although I was 2-3 years past my divorce I realized I had not healed in many ways and this book helped me uncover areas that I needed to address. Annette, divorced after 4 years of marriage.This book is full of faith, compassion, and common sense! Now I can see that there really is a place for me in the Catholic Church and that God has not abandoned me. I know I have moved forward because of it. Gianna, divorced after 3 years of marriage.I think the book is excellent. It addressed every issue I was concerned about, especially in helping me to trust God more. James, divorced after 9 years of marriage.This book was sent by God for me to get through this hard and troubling situation. If I had not been able to read it, I would still be struggling with my relationship with God, my life and forgiveness. Because of this program I am now moving on with my life and helping my child move on. Kathy, divorced after 33 years of marriage.Each chapter provided a very fertile environment for me to address my issues and find healing. Patrick, divorced after 12 years of marriage.Through this book, I have come closer to God and to Mary (who I rarely prayed to in the past) and I have gone to confession for the first time in 30 years. I now feel like a new person. Liz, divorced after 4 years of marriage.I have never really felt close to my Faith, especially after my divorce, but this book has helped that. It has given me a better understanding of the Church, and a deeper love and understanding of God. Laurie, divorced after 9 years of marriage.This book has been a beneficial resource for me and I know I will be referring to it as the issues arise again in the future. Leo, divorced after 14 years of marriage.I cannot thank you enough for all that you put into this book. It has been such a huge help to me in my spiritual journey and getting me through my divorce. Kristen, divorced after 10 months of marriage.My prayer life is more open and honest, now. It is easier for me to express my anger and other emotions in prayer and not fear that the Lord does not want to listen. The book has definitely strengthened my relationship with God. Grant, divorced after 9 years of marriage.This book is very effective and has reaffirmed my faith. Liz, separated after 15 years of marriage. --Readers of the Book