About Us:
Picket Fences Divorce Recovery Ministries began in 2000 as a Yahoogroup by a tiny group of divorced women who found themselves "shunned" by their local church as a result of their divorce. As this group grew, it became obvious that there was a distinct need for a non-denominational divorce recovery ministry in the church that catered to women only. As women joined this Yahoogroup, the stories began pouring in...heartbreaking stories of betrayal, rejection and abuse. From this Yahoogroup, a core group of women dedicated to the vision of supporting and giving hope to women who have been faced with a divorce, began to develop a mission statement, a statement of faith, and ministry parameters. In 2007, the ministry briefly expanded to a forum setting. In this year, the Picket Fences "ning" network was founded. In the spring of 2010, this network had grown to over 500 women. Although the future of this network, at one point, was uncertain, the rapid growth has solidified the need for a divorce recovery ministry for Christian women, which now holds a membership of over 700 women. With the emergence of Facebook, a Picket Fences Facebook group was established in 2009. In February, 2010, we transitioned through an ownership change and a regrouping. We are excited as we wait and see the plans that God has for us. In May 2011, PFDRM passed yet another milestone as PFDRM became PFDRM, Inc, and is in the process of applying for 501(c)3 status (non-profit, tax exempt corporation). Along with the PFDRM Ministry Team, formerly known as the Moderators, who maintain a presence in the communities to ensure that ministry and support happens, an official Board of Directors is now in place to maintain the overall functionality of the ministry. These team of over 30 godly women serve sacrificially and selflessly and are dedicated to the mission of helping other women navigate through the trauma and devastation of a divorce. Blessings, Lisa D. Executive Director, PFDRM, Inc. Picket Fences FAQs
1. Is there a cost associated with joining Picket Fences Divorce Recovery Ministries?
No. Our services are absolutely FREE. 2. Why is Picket Fences Divorce Recovery Ministries for women-only?
Although there are divorce recovery ministries who do offer support for a mixed gender group, we believe that the women-only setting allows for a more intimate setting. During the divorce process, there is often much anger that is directed toward members of the opposite sex. Having members of the opposite sex present while discussing personal matters may result in escalating emotions. Although we realize that men also suffer during a divorce, we're sorry guys....this is for women only. 3. Do I have to be a Christian to join PFDRM?
No, the only stipulation for PFDRM is that it is women-only. Please be mindful, however, that since we use Scripture (the Bible) as our foundation, if you do not believe the Bible or believe in God, this site may not be for you. We do invite you to come in and visit, but be aware that we believe that our faith is a big part of who we are (through a personal relationship with Jesus Christ). We will not "preach" at you or try to "convert" you, as our main mission is divorce recovery support. Divorce is awful whether you are a believer or non-believer, but do keep in mind that we are a faith-based ministry and the topic of faith cannot be avoided. Our Statement of Faith can be viewed here. 4. Is this a "pro-divorce" or "anti-divorce" site? Will I be condemned here?
We neither advocate nor condemn divorce. We believe that God hates divorce, but because of sinful human nature, it is, at times, unavoidable. We realize that most have not made the decision to divorce on a whim; however, this decision has been made with much prayer and agony. Many times this decision was not our own. We are not here to judge or condemn, rather we are here to love, listen and support our dear sisters. 5. Do you offer legal assistance?
No. We do not offer legal assistance. However, you can check out our Resources page for links to helpful resources. 6. What avenues of support are available?
Currently, we have three main support sites: Yahoogroups, PF Social Network, and Facebook. Yahoogroups: This support group is an active, secure email support group where the pain and trauma of divorce issues are discussed on an intimate level. If you seek "real-time" answers and/or support, then this is the group for you. Founded in 2000, this is currently the heart and soul of PFDRM. PF Social Network: PFDRM has its own secure social network. This support system is in a "Facebook-style" format. Founded in 2007 and over 600 members strong, this network also offers support. Come and join us and enjoy our many updates and features such as: a 24/7 chatroom, personal blogs, photos, devotions and, most important, support from other women who have gone through/who are going through the same thing. Facebook: Yes, we're on Facebook! The newest member of PFDRM is our Facebook group, which was founded in 2009. This is a more casual setting which allows us to get to know one another and "socialize". 7. Are there any "real-life" support groups available?
It is our goal in the near-future to offer face-to-face support groups through the local church. This is currently not available. 8. How long will it take me to "recover" from a divorce?
There is no set time-table for recovery. There are many variables which determine recovery time: length of marriage, cause of divorce, length of separation, nature of abuse (if applicable), etc. The general "rule of thumb" is 1 year for every 5 years of marriage. 9. What about remarriage? I'm recently divorced and I've met this wonderful man...
We realize that being suddenly single after years of companionship can be frightening and overwhelming. However, please keep in mind that the divorce rate for second marriages escalates exponentially as the number of remarriages increase. Is there a time and place for remarriage? Absolutely. We believe that a healthy relationship with the opposite sex cannot occur until healing has occured. Jumping into another relationship immediately after a failed relationship is simply courting disaster. We believe that we should focus on our inner relationship with Jesus Christ FIRST before we can even think about dating. Remarriage is NOT the "holy grail" of divorce recovery. Our goal at PFDRM is to support one another through the trauma of divorce, not to see that every sister remarries. 10. How exactly does Picket Fences Divorce Recovery Ministries work?
We know that each situation is unique. However, PFDRM is a network of women who have "been there, done that and SURVIVED". We are ready to share our stories and offer hope that there is life after divorce. We also have a prayer team committed to lifing your requests up to our Heavenly Father. After all, He cares for us...all of us. 11. Do you offer counseling services?
No, we do not offer counseling services. Eventually, Resources will contain links to referral services and/or counseling services. 12. Do you offer any literature or printed resources?
Not yet. Our Resources page will have recommended books and resources. 13. I know of a great website or book. Can I share this?
Yes. Please submit this through our Contact Us and our team will review. If appropriate, we will post it on the website. 14. I have more questions.
Please feel free to Contact Us with your question and a member our our Ministry Team will respond as soon as possible. Be sure and leave a contact email so we will know where to send a response. 15. Is this group limited to the United States?
Absolutely not! We know that the pain of divorce not limited to any one geographic location. Although English is the primary language used, we have members from around the globe and we certainly welcome you! We have members from nearly all continents, so please do not feel inhibited. We are here to listen. 16. Is PFDRM affiliated with a church or a particular denomination?
No, PFDRM, Inc. is a non-denominational ministry that is not affiliated with any one local church, religious organization or denomination. Our bottom line is: Scripture is the final say and only guide. Please visit our Statement of Faith for what we believe. 17. What if I want to make a donation to PFDRM? Although PFDRM is completely free for our members with no future plans to EVER "charge" members, from time to time, we are asked about receiving donations and gifts from women who have been blessed. At the moment, PFDRM, Inc. is not equipped to receive donations or accept advertisers. We do, however, have plans to add a "donation" portal and advertisement banners (possibly) to our website for those wishing to contribute (these donantions will be tax deductable). For now, our monthly expenses are a nominal amount...but as the ministry expands, our financial needs will also expand. But, don't worry! The last thing we want to do is to make PFDRM a commericalized for-profit ministry. Philippians 4:19 My God will supply all your need...
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Prayer Requests "Bear one another’s burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ." Galatians 6:2 Once submitted, your prayer request will be added to the prayer list and prayed for by the staff of PFDRM. |
About Picket Fences (Q & A) |
