The Diocese of Birmingham’s Tribunal Office recently announced it will be offering advanced advocate training on Saturday, Sept. 13, from 10 a.m. – 4:30 pm. at the Cathedral of St. Paul’s Life Center. Attendees may attend the cathedral’s 5 p.m. anticipated Mass following the conclusion of the training. This is an opportunity for lay people who are already trained as advocates, as well as for priests and deacons, to come and take a deeper look at the advocacy process through case studies, group activities, and other presentations. For more information or to register for the training day, please contact Mattie Shumate at tribunaloffice@bhmdiocese.org or 205.838.8307 by Sept. 9.

For 2026, the office is looking to offer regional opportunities for those who wish to become advocates for the first time. Also being considered for next year are a clergy workshop, a Spanish advocate training session, and another advanced training opportunity. Regarding new advocates, candidates for advocacy should possess an attention to detail, the ability to learn new things, and, among other qualities, an open heart. Oftentimes, good candidates are those familiar with civil law. Fluency in Spanish and English is also helpful.

For more information, please visit bhmdiocese.org/tribunal.