“The Family finds in the plan of God the creator and redeemer not only its identity, what it is, but also its mission, what it can and should do.” (Familiaris Consortio 1981, Pope John Paul II)

Goal/Primary Responsibility

To provide training, programs and resources, advocacy, and support to pastors and parish staffs, Marriage Preparation Ministers, and others involved in family ministries.

There is nothing more fundamental to our growth and development as a community and as a Church than families. Families are the fullest reflection of God's love and presence.

The office of Family Life promotes and empowers families by providing programs, training, outreach and resources. The Office of Family Life offers enrichment programs for married couples, helps prepare engaged couples for happy, holy and lasting marriages and so much more.

Objectives of the Family Life Office:

• To work with parishes in following the Diocesan Marriage Preparation Guidelines by providing Ministry Training and Education and Marriage Preparation Programs.
• To provide and promote Marriage Enrichment and Healing through Diocesan and Parish Programs.
• To strengthen the family as the basic unit of Church and society through Family Enrichment and Family Faith Formation.
• To provide and/or ensure Leadership Training and Formation to Marriage Preparation Ministers, Natural Family Planning Instructors, and other Family Ministry Presenters.
• To support and promote the work of groups ministering with families in the diocese and provide resources to parishes to foster family Ministries.