1.

Masid-Danas:

I sometimes think that separation is the key to saving the relationship. Thus, in my
personal experience, I think it is not. Sometimes, couples are just drowned by the
overflowing of emotions they feel during the situation. Disappointment and anger often
play a significant role in driving individuals to sever ties with their partners. However, as
these emotions gradually subside, they may come to realize that love still exists between
them. Effective communication and empathy towards each other can be the reason for
saving the relationship. Nevertheless, the decision to preserve or terminate the
commitment remains deeply personal, as some find the burden too overwhelming to bear
alone.
Many people say that couples don't necessarily fall out of love; rather, they
experience personal problems in their connection with each other, leading them to decide
to part ways. The issue of Divorce has been a wide issue in the Philippines for the past
years. According to the PSA data, from the last 2015-2020, 400,000 individuals are
divorced, separated or annulled on their marriage (Census: More Filipino Couples Now in
Live-in Arrangements, 2023). The increasing number of Filipinos living in the urban
environment contributes to the growing liberal attitude of divorce. Changing lifestyles
and behaviors tend to make couples grow apart. The experiences the couple both feel at a
different environment makes them want to grow on their own (Abalos, 2017). Moreover,
the growing problems of abuse, infidelity, and addiction also influence relationships to
reach a breaking point. Experts identify the risk factors that contribute to people facing
divorce, particularly attributing it to a young age, lower levels of education, and financial
challenges (How Common Is Divorce and What Are the Reasons? | Your Divorce
Questions, n.d.). Divorce may seem to be the answer to the problem of commitment, thus
it affects the personal well being of the individuals experiencing it. According to Journal
to Men’s health, divorced citizens regardless of gender, experience elevated rates of
mortality, depression, general illness, and substance abuse. Each one has their personal
way of coping up with the huge problem in the relationship (Stacy, 2023). Aside from the
fact that the two people between the relationships are affected, emotional attributes of the
people around them are disturbed. The children of separated parents often experience
feelings of solitude, curiosity, and anger in their current situation. The challenges of
adapting to living in two households and the accompanying changes can lead to
significant stress, mainly academic difficulties, mental health, and behavior problems
(Morin, 2022). Children often feel most of the problems that are caused by separation.

Divorce is not solely a societal issue; rather, it resonates within the heart of each
individual. Making a lifetime decision of committing in marriage, should be thinked
twice or thrice. Keeping the promises of matrimony should be taken by heart. I am
 hoping that people in this generation will keep in mind the significance of marriage. They
should not be selfish and think of the possible consequences it may bring to the people
around them.

A. Social Analysis of the root cause of suffering/issue/problem

B. Theological Analysis

Social Analysis: Why should society be concerned about this issue?

Divorce has been a global concern with a rate of 5.5 per 1,000 people in
Maldives, 4.3 per 1,000 in Guam, and 3.9 per 1,000 in Russia (Wisevoter, N/A), these are
the places that occupy the top 3 highest ranks in the rate of divorce in the world.
Although the numbers may seem small when compared to each other, they are however
large in size if taken at a bigger scale with respect to the population of these countries. In
these number lie within the problems of married couples. According to Divorce (N/A),
lack of intimacy/distance in the relationship occupy 55% of the reasons of divorce
followed by communication problems and money disagreements with 53% and 40%
respectively. This then gives rise to social concerns like does distant relationship is still
worth it or should it be trashed away? or does language barriers set a disadvantage in
conveying love towards their partner? All of these play a part in the social context as the
technogy progresses yet these concerns still remain an unresolved issue.

Theological Analysis:

The sacrament represents religious, spiritual symbols, which are transmitted then
seen in reality. It serves as sources of grace for individuals and it is a sign of one's faith.
They are not merely just representations or symbols, but these are celebrations of the gifts
and graces that God has bestowed upon us.

The Catholic tradition very much lies in the concept of Genesis 1:27-28, which
states “So God created man in his own image, in the image of God he created him; male
and female he created them. And God blessed them. And God said to them, 'Be fruitful
and multiply and fill the earth and subdue it, and have dominion over the fish of the sea
and over the birds of the heavens and over every living thing that moves on the earth.'”.
This idea concieves the notion that there must be the process of multiplication, more
explicitly known as sex in lame man's term, from this, it implies that there must be
contact and interaction between couples in a union.
 The sacred Catholic marriage is heavy on today’s generation due to the history that
shapes their characteristics. However, marriage can still be tale seriously as it is a
sacrament that bind two individual together with the goal to multiple and fill the earth
with its creation. In our households, broom are the metaphorical representation of
marriage: with the binding of each one to act as one united being in harmony of doing
something pleasant. The same thing can be said for married couples, both must exist
together to create, or rather procreate, something significant and valuable to the society
which should later on contribute to the pleasant will of the Lord of creating a paradise on
land.

The sacrament marriage is the foundational relationship of the society. The relationships
in society stem from the father-mother relationship, and these other relationships thrive
most if that father-mother relationship is a closed husband- wife relationship. Good
marriages are the bedrock of strong societies, for they are the foundations of strong
families. In marriage, there are tasks that it must fulfill which are the family, church,
school and the government. In this tasks, a child may learn to value and perform these
tasks as a competent adult that is an additional value to the society.

2. Suri-Nilay 1.1 :

Divorce happens for a myriad of complex reasons stemming from a convergence

of social, economic, cultural, and individual factors (Buscho, 2020). The evolution of
social norms plays a significant role, as changing attitudes have made divorce more
socially acceptable, empowering individuals to seek separation when relationships falter.
Communication and conflict resolution issues can create unresolved tensions, eroding the
foundations of a marriage over time. Financial stress, arising from economic hardships or
disagreements, can strain relationships, contributing to marital breakdowns. Infidelity and
trust issues also cast shadows on unions, corroding emotional bonds and prompting the
decision to divorce (Segal et al., 2019). In modern societies that value individualism and
personal fulfillment, when marriages fail to meet these aspirations, individuals may
choose divorce to prioritize their well-being. Cultural and religious influences further
impact attitudes, with varying degrees of acceptance or resistance to divorce (Höllinger,
2020). Lack of support systems and unrealistic expectations about marriage can
exacerbate the likelihood of divorce. Recognizing these multifaceted reasons can
empower individuals and couples to address challenges proactively, seek support, and
foster healthier and more sustainable relationships.

Divorce, as an intricate issue, is influenced by a nexus of historical, social,

economic, cultural, and individual factors. Over time, shifting societal norms and
 evolving attitudes have transformed divorce from a stigmatized taboo to a more accepted
option, reflecting changes in cultural perceptions. Economic strains, including financial
stress and instability, can exacerbate marital tensions and contribute to higher divorce
rates (Friedline et al., 2020). The rise of individualism, coupled with evolving notions of
personal fulfillment, may affect the commitment to long-term marriages. Additionally,
poor communication and conflict resolution skills can compound marital issues, leading
to the decision to divorce (Amato, 2014). The consequences of divorce are far-reaching,
affecting individuals emotionally and psychologically, disrupting family dynamics,
creating economic challenges, and impacting social networks. Key actors in this domain
include couples facing divorce, family and friends providing support or influence,
religious institutions shaping perceptions, the legal system, therapists and counselors
offering guidance, and media and societal norms shaping attitudes (Potter, 2020).
Understanding the interplay between these elements is essential for comprehending the
complexities of divorce and devising effective strategies to address its ramifications.

2. Suri-Nilay 1.2 :

Divorce is a complex and sensitive issue that impacts countless families and
communities worldwide. It raises questions about the compatibility of contemporary
practices with Gospel values and the teachings of the Catholic Church. The percentage of
Filipinos who believed that "Married couples who have already separated and cannot
reconcile anymore should be allowed to divorce so that they can legally marry again"
grew over the course of the last ten years, rising from 43% in 2005 to 60% in 2014.
However, in an article by Torres (2020), the Catholic Council of the Laity of the
Philippines expressed that divorce is "immoral" because it causes chaos in families and
society, as stated in the Church's catechism. The Gospel emphasizes the sanctity of
marriage and the unity of the couple as two becoming one flesh (Matthew 19:4-6).
Divorce, in its essence, denies this sacred bond and undermines the values of love,
commitment, and self-sacrifice taught by Jesus. However, the Gospel also calls for
compassion and forgiveness, recognizing the fallen nature of humanity (Mark 10:2-12).

The Scriptures offer varying perspectives on divorce. In Matthew 5:31-32, Jesus

acknowledges that divorce was permitted under the Mosaic Law but condemned its
casual use. Instead, he reaffirms the divine intention for a lifelong, indissoluble union.
Paul, in 1 Corinthians 7:10-16, addresses cases where one spouse is not a believer,
allowing for separation without endorsing divorce. Thus, while the Scriptures emphasize
the ideal of marital unity, they also acknowledge human frailty and complexities.
Catholic Social Teaching (CST) provides a framework to address societal issues,
including divorce. CST highlights the importance of human dignity, solidarity, and the
common good. Divorce can deeply affect individuals' well-being, especially children, and
 challenge the stability of families and communities. CST calls for supporting families in
crisis, offering pastoral care, and fostering a culture of reconciliation (Miller, 2017). It
urges society to promote values that strengthen marriages and advocate for policies that
protect the institution of marriage. The Catholic Church's stance on divorce is rooted in
its understanding of marriage as a sacrament, a sacred covenant before God. The Church
upholds the traditional notion of the sacrament, emphasizing its indissolubility. Divorce,
from this perspective, contradicts the permanence of the marital bond, leading to a
spiritual and emotional rupture. However, the Church also recognizes the need to provide
pastoral care and support for those who have experienced divorce, offering opportunities
for healing and reconciliation (Rowland, 2020).

In light of divorce's prevalence and its impact on individuals and society, scholars
and theologians have engaged in a rereading of the sacrament of marriage. This
reevaluation involves looking at Scripture texts and historical Church practices to
understand marriage beyond its legal and societal implications (Abalos, 2017). Some
propose a greater focus on the spiritual dimensions of marriage, recognizing that while
civil divorce may occur, the spiritual bond remains intact. This reinterpretation of the
sacrament of marriage can help foster a deeper understanding of God's grace within
marital relationships. Viewing marriage as a covenant, rather than merely a contract,
emphasizes the couple's commitment to God and each other. While divorce remains a
challenging and painful reality, the reevaluation of the sacrament highlights the potential
for reconciliation, healing, and growth in the midst of brokenness.

The issue of divorce raises pertinent questions about the alignment of

contemporary practices with Gospel values and Catholic Social Teaching. The Gospel's
emphasis on unity and compassion must be balanced with the Church's teaching on the
sacramental nature of marriage. By rereading the sacrament and understanding its deeper
spiritual significance, the Christian community can provide better pastoral care for those
impacted by divorce. Ultimately, addressing divorce requires a comprehensive approach
that upholds Gospel values, respects Church teaching, and embraces the call for
compassion and healing within families and communities.

3. Taya-Kilos:addresses the question, How do we respond?

Question: Do you believe with FireHouse’s song, “Love of a Lifetime” lyrics wherein
they explicitly expressed the discovery of a love that is destined to last forever?

"You're the right one for me,"

"I finally found the love of a lifetime,"
"A love to last my whole life through"
 These phrases evoke feelings of enduring affection, commitment, and a shared journey
of happiness (Love of a Lifetime FireHouse Song, 2023). Such sentiments are the
bedrock of countless relationships, where two individuals come together with hope, trust,
and the belief that their love will stand strong against all odds. Indeed, for many people,
marriage is seen as a commitment and a way to solidify their love, making their love
stories seemingly endless. However, in a world where love stories are celebrated, another
heartrending reality often lurks in the shadows - DIVORCE.

As Lasallians, it is essential for us to be proactive and informed about the prevailing

social issue of divorce, which has become increasingly common in society. We should
take action to raise awareness, offer support, and promote understanding in addressing
this significant challenge.

EMPOWERING CITIZENS
Individuals can contribute to addressing the social issue of divorce in various ways:

Educate oneself
Ordinary citizens can educate themselves about divorce laws, its impact on families, and
the effect on its overall well-being of a person (Sander et al., 2020).

Support systems
They can be empathetic and supportive towards friends, family, or colleagues who are
experiencing divorce, offering emotional assistance and practical help if needed (Rafkin,
2022).

Advocate for change: Citizens can support organizations and initiatives working to
improve divorce laws and provide better resources for individuals and families affected
by divorce (Dietz Family Law, 2020).

RESPONSIBILITIES AND INITIATIVES

As people of faith, our responsibility in addressing divorce is to provide empathy

and support to individuals and families going through this challenging process. We can
encourage healthy relationships and advocate for resources that strengthen marriages.
Many religious communities offer counseling services and marriage enrichment programs
to help couples navigate difficulties and explore alternatives to divorce. One of these
programs are Center for Family Ministries (CEFAM) and Mental Health Services for
Corporations, Families and Individuals.
 Center for Family Ministries (CEFAM)
Their approach to pastoral counseling integrates psychological and spiritual
aspects by drawing on knowledge from behavioral sciences, incorporating insights and
practices from various faith traditions, and aligning these elements with the values and
beliefs of the Filipino ethos (Pastoral Counseling, n.d.).

The program’s missions are:

● Creating a safe and nurturing environment for families, couples, and individuals
experiencing relationship distress.
● Offering guidance and support during crises, challenging life transitions, and
moments of introspection.
● Collaborating with clients to assess their strengths and needs, facilitating the
process of restoring their overall well-being.

Mental Health Services for Corporations, Families and Individuals.

In addition to the face-to-face appointments with CEFAM, this program also offer
virtual Mental Health Services for corporations, families, and individuals. This allows
them to cater to the needs of clients who prefer or require online counseling and support,
ensuring accessibility and convenience for all. Their online services require patients to
have an internet connection and access to a mobile phone or computer with a
microphone. Sessions are priced between 2000 - 2500 pesos per session, and due to
limited availability, payment upfront is necessary to secure a slot (Couples Marriage
Counselling - Prescription Psychiatrists, n.d.).

GOAL/CHANGE FOR THE ISSUE

We would like to foster a more empathetic and supportive environment for
individuals and families going through divorce, reducing any stigma or judgment
associated with it. Additionally, we aim to promote healthy relationships and
communication skills to prevent divorce where possible.

SUPPORT & OPPOSE

Against Divorce
> Roman Catholic Church, divorce is generally opposed, and the institution of
marriage is considered a lifelong and indissoluble covenant between a man and a woman.
The Church's position on divorce is based on its interpretation of biblical teachings and the
belief that marriage is a sacred sacrament instituted by God.
 Just like in Matthew 19:3-12, it was stated that Jesus further discusses divorce
when questioned by the Pharisees, emphasizing that divorce was allowed in the past due to
human hardness of heart, but it was not part of God's original plan for marriage.

> Orthodox Jewish teachings generally discourage divorce and consider marriage
as a sacred bond that should be preserved. However, Jewish law does provide provisions
for divorce, known as "get," in certain situations.

> Individuals who hold rigid beliefs about divorce may be resistant to changes
in societal attitudes. They may view divorce as a moral issue and may be hesitant to accept
more liberal or progressive perspectives on the subject. This resistance can sometimes
create challenges in promoting a more empathetic and compassionate approach towards
divorce within broader society.

Pro Divorce

> Individual Autonomies believe that individuals should have the right to make
decisions about their own lives, including whether to continue or end a marriage that is no
longer fulfilling or healthy ((Pearce, 2017).

> Freedom from Unhealthy Relationships allow individuals to escape abusive,

harmful, or toxic relationships, promoting safety and well-being.

> Support is likely to come from individuals and organizations that advocate for
the well-being of individuals and families experiencing divorce. This includes counseling
centers, family support groups, and initiatives promoting healthy co-parenting and
amicable resolutions during divorce proceedings.
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