WHEELING – For those wondering where do they fit in in the Catholic Church after separation or divorce – make plans to attend The Olive Branch program, Oct. 11, at the Angelus Center on the campus of St. Michael Parish and School, Wheeling.
The Olive Branch is designed to offer information and resources to aid in achieving personal and spiritual growth while navigating the complicated and painful process of separation or divorce. Director of Social Ministries for the Diocese of Wheeling-Charleston, Kathy Barton, has been working to kick off the program since she was hired more than two years ago. She knew from personal experience that there are so many misconceptions out there, misinformation leading people away from their faith, and complications too heavy to handle when the “happily ever after” marriage has crumbled.
She said, “Olive Branch is a gentle reminder that you need not go through this journey alone and that peace and new life are promised to those who remain faithful.”
This program is created to be the “olive branch” of restored faith and hope in the midst of the storm.
Olive Branch Ministry is respectfully for Catholic and non-Catholic individuals, and it is not intended to be counseling for couples. Instead, it is a faith-based program for individuals going through the pain of separation or divorce to find the love, mercy, and empathy of the Catholic faith, she said.
Barton reminds us that in “Genesis, Chapter 8, ‘the olive branch’ is a symbol of new life. As the story goes, the olive branch, which was brought to Noah by a dove, was the first real sign that the flood was subsiding and that there was indeed new life beyond the storm. This simple tangible sign renewed in Noah the faith that he needed to continue his journey of suffering and hardship with the belief, hope, and confidence that his suffering would one-day pass.
“We all go through storms in our lives,” she said. “Sometimes these storms can be very dark, lonely and frightening. It is at this time that we need our faith to be rock solid. Yet, all too often, it is at this time that we are so exhausted and frightened that our faith turns to confusion and doubt. However, it is with God’s guidance and only with Him that we are able to weather and navigate the storms in our lives with certainty of arriving at our intended destination.”
It is the hope of everyone working behind the scenes to create this program that those who are separated or divorced will see it as a reminder that “We are not alone and that our destination is in His hands,” Barton said.
“We need to merely stay the course and find our way back home-our way back to the Lord.”
October 11th will be a day of opportunity to find hope and healing. National speaker and bestselling author, Joelle Moray, will lead the keynote “How to find peace in this process – dealing with constant stress.”
Moray is a National Certified Counselor (NCC), “on a mission to disrupt the hustle culture” and empower others against anxiety, stress-induced illnesses, and lost relationships; and instead embrace being productive, self-caring, and an inspiration for others.
“I believe every person deserves support during life’s most difficult seasons,” Moray said about why she wanted to be involved in the Olive Branch program Oct. 11th. “When I was invited to join Olive Branch, I saw it as a meaningful opportunity to share tools that help people find steadiness and strength when life feels overwhelming. My work is about helping people recover their energy and hope, and I felt this was a beautiful space to do just that.
“Olive Branch provides a safe place where people can come as they are and be met with compassion, understanding, and practical support,” she said. “Transitions like divorce or loss can leave people feeling isolated, and Olive Branch creates community where healing can begin. This ministry reminds us that no one has to walk through these chapters alone.”
Father Carlos Melocoton, V.F., will address “What can I still do in the Church? Am I still welcome.”
He clarified that while St. Michael Parish is pleased to serve as the host for the inaugural Olive Branch Retreat it is not restricted to just St. Michael parishioners.
“All are welcome,” Fr. Melocoton said. “Anyone who is dealing with the pain of separation/divorce is encouraged to be a part of this day.”
Professional counselor, Donna L. Niggemeyer, M.Ed., LPC, of Christian Counseling Associates, will help attendees take a step back in order to confidently move forward with her, “How did we get here” talk.
“I am honored to participate in a ministry with the vision and purpose of advancing God’s kingdom,” Niggemeyer said, as she noted this is the first opportunity of what she hopes will be many for the diocese and Barton’s office as they reach out to extend much needed support. “I look forward to participation in future planned events with the Olive Branch Ministry, a faith-based approach, providing a structured, supportive, loving, and faith-focused community during a challenging time.”
Barton will wrap up the gathering with “What does forgiveness look like?”
Additionally, she will encourage all to “Give it to HIM.”
The day will conclude with the opportunity for confession and Mass.
Barton said, Olive Branch has been set up to be a diocesan wide initiative.
“Our Catholic brothers and sisters are not on this journey alone,” she said. “There are many in these shoes we never planned to be in. By extending the Olive Branch we hope those who accept it find a space of peace and there find faith renewed.”
The October event is free, but registration is required in order to prepare for refreshments, lunch, and materials.
For more information and to register, go to: https://dwc.org and select the Olive Branch Ministry event button.
