The Peyton Institute for Domestic Church Life

Addressing the Challenges to All Contemporary Families

Most contemporary families experience a high level of distress, and many are in crisis. School, church, work, social media, organized youth sports, and friendships all have legitimate claims on the time and presence of families. Combined with the negative impact of consumerism, drugs, pornography, violent video games, music, films and other activities, many families find it difficult to develop habits and practices that lead to healthy spiritual and religious lives. Catholic families are not immune to these daily pressures and challenges, and many find it difficult to even schedule regular family meals.

Catholic families are called to be different! Many parents need support, encouragement, and solid resources in order to unite and live a joyful and rich Catholic family life. The Institute, together with their collaborators, will take an in-depth examination of the best ways to strengthen families as the basic cell of Church and society.

As we look to the future and how we can better understand and meet the spiritual needs of the 21st century family, The Peyton Institute for Domestic Church Life will gather data and commission new research through partnerships to develop effective models of family prayer and spirituality for church leaders and families.

Under the leadership of HCFM, the Institute is directed by Dr. Greg and Lisa Popčak of Pastoral Solutions working closely with Father Willy Raymond, C.S.C., and other Holy Cross Family Ministries staff. Initial work will consist of commissioning research on Catholic families who successfully pass the faith to their children. From that data, practical programs and materials will be developed both for families as well as leaders in the church, particularly those in family life ministry.

The Institute is based at The Father Peyton Center in North Easton, Massachusetts.