Saturday June 25 we had a wonderful gathering with the youth of Our Lady of Mercy Parish in Emdeni where the topic was Youth and Mental Health. These were confirmation group, Alter Servers, Children of Mercy and Soldiers of Christ. A report can be read here.
June 27; 7pm-8:15pm. Hope & Wellness Circle via ZOOM. Join our monthly drop-in circle, in the comfort of your home, and be in community with others who are facing mental health challenges or are caring for loved ones who are. Our desire and goal are to provide a safe, supportive space to help ensure that no one feels alone in his or her struggle. Email [email protected] for zoom info.
When we think of ministry, we often categorize it as liturgical, pro-life or social justice. However, a relatively recent ministry that encompasses all three focuses on accompanying our fellow Catholics who live with mental illness, and their families. Because the thought of mental illness often brings to mind professionals who are licensed to treat people, we feel inadequate to the task. Yet this is a ministry we all can do, because the critical task is listening and being present to accompany someone who is struggling.
Deacon Ed Shoener opens up about how suicidal thoughts are a serious illness that needs to be treated, just like symptoms of any other life threatening disease
Join Mission Revive's hosts Anne Costa and Bob Newberry for a important interview with Deacon Ed Shoener. Deacon Ed is the President of the Association of Catholic Mental Health Ministers and a founding member of the Catholic Institute for Mental Health Ministry at the University of San Diego. He is coauthor of the book, "Responding to Suicide: A Pastoral Handbook for Catholic Leaders". His daughter, Katie, died by suicide in 2016. Katie’s obituary went viral because it spoke to the needs and concerns of people who live with mental illness. You can find his organization here: https://catholicmhm.org/ You can find his book here: https://www.avemariapress.com/products/responding-to-suicide