The Church’s teachings on marriage, divorce, and remarriage are often misunderstood. The First Step program is offered to help everyone, especially those who have been divorced, learn more about Catholic beliefs on marriage and how to submit an 'annulment' case. Representatives from Marriage and Family Ministry of the Diocese of Cleveland will also be present to explain their ministry to those who are separated or divorced.
To date, we have had the privilege of meeting over 2000 people through the First Step program. The seminar is open to all without registration and usually lasts around 90 minutes. Tribunal staff members are available to answer questions, both during the seminar and afterwards.
The normal process for submitting a case to the Tribunal remains that you contact a priest, deacon, or lay ecclesial minister at a local parish. It is not necessary that you wait to attend a First Step session. The First Step sessions are an alternative opportunity to learn more.
First Step sessions currently scheduled for 2023 are:
This bulletin announcement can be used to promote the First Step sessions for 2023.
Future sessions will be announced on this web page and via the Diocesan Memorandum. In the meantime, please call the tribunal or your local parish with any questions.
Priests, deacons or lay ecclesial ministers who would like to discuss the possibility of hosting a First Step meeting in your parish or district should contact the Tribunal Office.
Learn about programs for the divorced offered by the Office for Marriage and Family Ministry
Child & Youth Protection
Our promise to protect, our pledge to heal.
To report an abuse, please contact local law enforcement and:
Kathleen McComb, Victim Assistance Coordinator
Response Services – 216-334-2999
Catholic Diocese of Cleveland © 2023
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