New Ways to Support People Facing Separation or Divorce During the Holidays

The holidays are often portrayed as a season of joy—filled with family, traditions, and warm memories. But for those going through a separation or divorce, the season can feel anything but joyful. Instead of togetherness, there’s tension. Instead of celebration, grief. Traditions may be disrupted, and expectations may feel crushing.

Whether someone is newly separated, recently divorced, or carrying the ongoing pain of a fractured relationship, the holidays can intensify their sense of loss and loneliness.

But your church can be a place of hope and healing this season.

Your heart to help—and the tools to do it

As a pastor, lay leader, or caring friend, you’ve likely seen the deep emotional and spiritual toll divorce can take. You want to offer support, but this kind of hurt requires a different kind of care—especially during the holidays.

That’s why DivorceCare created Surviving the Holidays. This onetime event and companion book are designed specifically for people navigating the season after a marriage separation or divorce. Whether hosted as a church event or given as a stand-alone resource, this tool provides practical help and Christ-centered encouragement for some of the hardest days of the year.

A closer look: Surviving the Holidays book for those separated or divorced

The Surviving the Holidays book is a gentle, truth-filled guide that walks individuals through the emotional, spiritual, and logistical challenges of facing the holidays without their marriage.

Some use it as a follow-up to a DivorceCare group. Others receive it as a caring gift from someone who sees their pain. It’s helpful for anyone who is experiencing separation or divorce—regardless of where they are in the process.

What’s inside:

• Real-life insight from people who have been through separation or divorce during the holidays
• Practical tips to help navigate social events, gift-giving, traditions, and co-parenting challenges
• Faith-filled reflections that remind readers they are not alone and that God is present in their pain
• Journal prompts and space for personal reflection to help process emotions and plan wisely

Want to take a look?
Preview the Book

Every book includes access to an on-demand, online video, full of wisdom and encouragement:

Preview the Video

Easy ways to offer this book in your church and community

You don’t need a large group to begin helping people who are hurting this season. Here are some simple, impactful ways to share the Surviving the Holidays book with those who need it:

• Set out copies in your church lobby with a sign: “Free for anyone facing separation or divorce this season.”
• Include it in a care package with a candle, journal, or handwritten note.
• Offer it through your church’s care ministry, counseling team, or prayer team.
• Equip small group leaders or pastors to distribute copies during one-on-one conversations.
• Partner with local counselors to make the book available to their clients.
• Give it anonymously to someone you know is struggling, with a message like “You are not alone.”
• Keep a few on hand at your church office for anyone who asks for help this season.

These quiet acts of care can help someone feel seen, valued, and supported—perhaps for the first time since their separation or divorce began.

Hosting a Surviving the Holidays event at your church

Want to create a safe space for hurting people to gather and find support? Hosting a Surviving the Holidays event is a meaningful way to do just that.

This onetime, two-hour session is simple to host and powerful in impact. The event includes a video presentation and discussion time—offering real help for those walking through the holidays after a separation or divorce.

Your event kit includes:

• A compelling video presentation featuring experts and real-life stories
• A facilitator guide with step-by-step instructions
• Five copies of the Surviving the Holidays book (used during the event)
• Promotional tools to invite people—flyers, graphics, and social media images

This event not only meets people in their current pain—it often opens the door for deeper relationships and long-term support through DivorceCare groups and other ministries.

“Surviving the Holidays gave me hope that I could get through this. I finally felt understood.”
Paul

“The people, the message, and the guidance made all the difference for me during the holidays.”
Denise

Be the church they need this season

Divorce and separation don’t pause for the holidays. In fact, the season often magnifies the pain. But your church has the opportunity to be a place of comfort, encouragement, and Christ-centered hope.

Whether you host a Surviving the Holidays event or offer the book to someone privately, you’re providing something people desperately need—real help and the reminder that they are not alone.

Ready to make a difference? Explore how to host a Surviving the Holidays event or get copies of Survival Guide: Navigating the Holidays After a Separation or Divorce today.