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 We are an inter-denominational group offering mutual support and
information to separated and divorced wives of clergy, ministers and
Church Army Officers . We welcome enquiries from male spouses of female
clergy where their marriage has broken down.
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Our adopted symbol is a butterfly - new life does emerge from a chrysalis
giving us hope for the future.
This owl's eye butterfly in Costa Rica is seen
emerging from its chrysalis.
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How did
it all
begin?
Broken Rites was formed in 1983 largely on the initiative of
Frank Field MP. He is an active churchman and MP and has a particular interest
in social welfare matters - especially the specific social and emotional
problems facing separated and divorced clergy wives. He invited anyone in this
position to write to him and then called a meeting in London. Twenty-six
people came and the group was formed. Two members have written
"The Story of Broken Rites."
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What do we do?
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We give support and understanding
on a one-to-one basis when needed. |
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We hold local group meetings |
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We provide information and access
to sources of help such as Bishops Visitors, counselling, legal,
financial and spiritual support. |
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We act as a pressure group within
the various churches |
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We raise awareness of the
difficulties and issues involved such as pension and housing. |
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Why are we here?
We are here because those who have lived through a clergy marriage
breakdown are able to understand fully :-
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the feelings of rejection |
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what it means to lose a husband
and a marriage, home, church, way of life, sense of purpose, place in
the community and sometimes faith, job or even children. |
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the embarrassment and disbelief
that may be generated in others when a clergy marriage breaks down and
which may make it all so much harder to handle |
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the effect it has on our children |
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the lack of legal rights of a wife |
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What is new?
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Last updated June 2010
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