For many adult children of divorce or separation, it can be difficult to let others, and even God, into the wounded places of our hearts. Like the Samaritan woman, we may carry shame, isolation, or walls built to protect ourselves. Yet Jesus meets us precisely there, thirsting for our faith and longing to offer us living water.

In this reflection, Fr. Carl connects the Call of Abram, St. Paul’s encouragement to persevere in hardship, and the Transfiguration of Jesus to our own healing journey as adult children of divorce and separation.

In this reflection, Fr. Carl meditates on the intimacy of God in the second creation account. He connects this powerful image to the Gospel of Jesus’ temptation in the desert, reminding us that being beloved does not mean being free from struggle.

In this Ash Wednesday reflection, Fr. Carl invites adult children of divorce and separation to enter Lent through true interior conversion. “Rend your hearts, not your garments.” While we receive ashes and practice external disciplines, the deeper work God desires is the healing of our hearts.

In this Lenten series, Fr. Carl, a Dominican priest of the Western Province and an adult child of divorce, shares personal reflections, Scripture, and prayer for those walking the path of healing as adult children of divorce or separation (ACODs). Fr. Carl speaks about how the wounds of his parents’ divorce affected him and how bringing those wounds into the light has become a source of grace and healing.