Family Ministry Office for January 2026
Parenting Tip #175
Parents constantly undertake the task of correcting poor behaviour in their children. To help them grow to be good and capable adults, it is important they learn proper behaviours, etiquette and good manners; parents are the first and foremost educators of all of these. Instead of reprimanding when undesired behaviours arise, ask them how they should be acting, or what would be a better way to act? Take a moment to remind them that their Baptism calls them to follow a better way, undertaking the same actions that Jesus would, ways of caring, love and compassion. Relating their behaviours to their faith provides a guidepost for actions throughout their lives and a way to live fully their Baptism.
(From: Teresa Hartnett, Family Ministry Office; 905-528-7988 ext. 2250)
Marriage Tip #155
Gratitude has proven to be one way that we can feel more joy in our everyday living. In our marriages, all the good moments can slip past our awareness when we focus instead on those that are annoying. What if you took time at the end of each day to review the day with eyes of gratitude instead of discontent? You would find that you can be thankful for so many things, for example: a spouse to share your home with, to share parenting with, to make you coffee or dinner, to the shared glance, smile or kiss that day. And there is more: a person who shares your values, who supports your faith, someone who is a forever friend. When we focus on gratitude, our relationship has a different look and feel and both spouse’s benefit!
(From: Teresa Hartnett, Family Ministry Office; 905-528-7988 ext. 2250)
The Diocesan Wedding Anniversary Mass - Are you celebrating your 25th, 40th, 50th, 60th, or 60+ Wedding Anniversary in the year 2026? You are cordially invited to join Bishop Dabrowski and couples from across the Diocese of Hamilton for a Wedding Anniversary Mass on Sunday, May 31, 2026 at the Cathedral Basilica of Christ the King in Hamilton at 1:30 pm. (Space allows room for Anniversary couples only - those married 60 years or more may bring one guest if you require assistance). Registration is found under Upcoming Events on the home page at hamiltondiocese.com, or call the Family Ministry Office at 905-528-7988 ext. 2249.
When Life Changes Grief Program Part One - Using Dr. Bill Webster’s grief material these programs are intended to help you to understand your grief and provide practical tips and support for helping you through. The program will be offered Feb. 18 – March 25th from 1:30 to 3:00 PM at the Chancery Office at 700 King St. West. All are welcome. To register, look for the program start date under Upcoming Events on the Diocesan home page at hamiltondiocese.com, or call the Family Ministry Office at 905-528-7988 ext. 2249.
ReSTART: Moving Forward – Have you experienced a divorce or separation? Are you looking to learn ways to cope, for support from others and to gain a feeling of moving forward? Our 10 week program offers education and support to anyone seeking to heal, or simply learn more. The sessions will run Tuesdays from Feb. 17 – April 21, 2026 from 7-9 pm and are held at the Chancery Office at 700 King St. West in person. Cost is $35 for materials, but no one is turned away. Registration online can be found by going to hamiltondiocese.com an looking for the date under Upcoming Events, or by contacting Sarah at 905-528-7988 ext. 2249 or at familyministry@hamiltondiocese.com.
ENHANCING SELF-ESTEEM - This program provides the opportunity to increase awareness of yourself and to learn specific skills for building a positive self-esteem. It can help you to feel stronger in all areas of your life. Issues covered during the course include taking responsibility for your own thoughts and feelings, positive ways to behave assertively and setting realistic goals for your future. The program will run Tuesdays from Feb. 17 – April 21 from 7-9 pm and are held at the Chancery Office at 700 King St. West Hamilton. Cost is $35 for materials. Registration online can be found by going to hamiltondiocese.com and looking for the date under Upcoming Events, or by contacting Sarah at 905-528-7988 ext. 2249, or at familyministry@hamiltondiocese.com.
RESTART: Refresh, Renew, Revive Support Group – Struggling after divorce or separation? Join us for learning, support and fun on Friday evenings. It is held the 2nd & 3rd Fridays of each month. These get-togethers offer continual support and insights for people as they journey through the divorce/separation process and beyond. Register here: https://sites.google.com/view/hamilton-restart/home anytime the week of the session, or contact Sarah at familyministry@hamiltondiocese.com, or 905-528-7988 ext. 2249. We look forward to seeing you!