The Diocesan Tribunal will hold an advocate training session on Saturday, Feb. 28, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church in Madison. Lunch will be provided. The session will be suitable for those who have never served in this capacity before and desire to learn how, as well as for those who have already been trained and desire a “refresher.” 

Tribunal advocates are trained individuals to whom a priest can refer any parishioners needing to pursue some canonical process with regard to past marriages. The advocate then accompanies the parishioner through the various steps, from filling out their annulment (or other process) application, to guiding them on the writing of their autobiographical essay, to answering their questions, to fielding status updates with our office and keeping the parishioner apprised of what’s happening along the way.

Qualities of a good advocate include a listening ear and open heart, attention to detail and patience with process, the ability to learn new things and explain them to others, flexibility to meet people where they are at, a trustworthy and discreet practice of the faith, a living out the Catholic faith appropriately (e.g., if married, in a valid marriage), and an appreciation for Catholic teaching on marriage but also for human nature and weakness. The ability to speak English and Spanish is a bonus. 

Often, good candidates for advocacy are those who have experience with civil law – either as lawyers (active or retired) or their spouses. Other good candidates are those who have been through an annulment themselves or who have walked with someone else who has been through one. 

With the goal of increasing the number of advocates collaborating with the Tribunal around the diocese to more effectively reach all who are in need of help with past marriages, all priests, deacons, and the lay men and women endorsed by their pastors/administrators are welcome to attend; however, those wishing to do so must RSVP by Feb. 20 at tribunaloffice@bhmdiocese.org or 205.838.8307.