"The best thing about the group was knowing you are not alone. Others are going through the same things, together." 

Divorce Recovery for Catholics – Support Group Schedule

Virtual group meeting on Zoom - 10:00 AM-12:00 PM

Register HERE for the Zoom Group.  Take advantage of being in the comfort of your home during the winter months. You will receive an email with instructions on joining

St. Gabriel Parish, 9925 Johnnycake Ridge Rd., Concord - 6:30-8:30 PM

Register HERE for this in-person group

St. Noel Parish, 35200 Chardon Rd., Willoughby Hills - 6:30-8:30 PM

Register HERE for this in-person group


Holiday Helps - mini 3-week Support Group - via Zoom

December 12, 19, 2023 and January 9th, 2024 via Zoom - 6:30-8:30 PM  Register HERE 

This special 3-week program is designed for those having difficulty facing the holiday season as a result of separation or divorce. Each session is self-contained, allowing you to attend however many your schedule allows. Each session will begin with an open discussion of current concerns and then will focus on a different topic each week. 


"I look forward to each session with anticipation. The participants are filled with deep emotions, many of which they are truly feeling for the first time. I acknowledge them, accept them, and using the videos, assist them in identifying them. My sincere prayer for each participant, whether they attend only one session or are able to continue to the end, is that they can find some sense of peace in knowing God is present with them at all times." Kate Stein, Faciliator

Separation and divorce are some of the most painful and stressful experiences you will ever face.  Feelings of isolation and confusion are common. Knowing that you are not alone and being with those who understand the hurt and pain you are going through helps you face these challenges and move toward rebuilding your life. 

The Catholic Parishes of the Lake-Geauga District offer a series of 8-week support groups that meet once a week for two hours.  Sessions are facilitated by trained professionals who use the book Growing through Divorce by Jim Smoke and the video series, Divorce Cares. Each session includes time for discussion and sharing. All support groups are conducted in a confidential, caring environment. Each group is tailored to meet the needs of the participants.

Your support group will allow you to discover recovery is possible along with personal growth and new hope. You become stronger through the support and encouragement of others.  

Topics covered in the support groups can include but are not limited to:

Our goal is to help you on your journey toward healing and recovery. All materials are provided and there is no fee for the group.  People of all faiths are welcome.

Meet Our Facilitators

Mary-Alice Bell

Missy is a certified prevention consultant. She has a BA in psychology from Cleveland State University and works with children and adults in a community mental health setting. 

Kate Stein, RN, LSW
Kate has a Nursing Degree from St. Joseph Hospital School of Nursing in Ft. Wayne, IN, and a BA in Psychology from Ursuline College in Pepper Pike, OH. She is on the board of Lake County Lifeline and volunteers as Chair in charge of the Clothing Room and St. Mary Church in Painesville. She enjoys spending time with her children and grandchildren.

Terri Worthington, LISW
Terri is a Licensed Independent Social Worker. She teaches parenting classes for divorcing couples and is part of a faculty training attorneys on children’s issues for the Supreme Court of Ohio. She has a B.A. in Sociology from Kent State University and a MSSA from Case Western Reserve University.