Emmaus Companions Newsletter - June 23, 2022
Hello Everyone,
As my garden begins to sprout and bloom once again, giving its own vegetative version of thanks and praise for recent rains, I too find myself in a space of thankfulness and optimism.
It is not as though challenges are lessened and stressors removed, but access to open-air, sunshine and a greening of the world lend themselves to increased opportunities to recharge and refresh. This is why I think you will enjoy the article below from mentalhealthfirstaid.org detailing summer self-care strategies.
The short podcast offered by the Jesuits of Brittain and the reflections from our Emmaus blog on St. Raphael also provide essential reminders of God's steadfast attention to our wellbeing and reassurance that we are never alone in our challenges and struggles.
I pray that the coming summer months provide ample opportunities for you and those whom you care for to experience the graces of renewal and healing that God has prepared for you.
Peace and God Bless,
Deacon Eric
"While they were talking and discussing, Jesus himself came near and went with them, but their eyes were kept from recognizing him...they urged him strongly, saying, ‘Stay with us, because it is almost evening and the day is now nearly over.’ So he went in to stay with them." - Luke 24:15-16;28-29
Our Emmaus Support Group meetings will return in September.
If you care for a loved one with mental health challenges and feel you could benefit from the support and prayers of peers with a similar lived experience, use the link below to find out how to register for our next meeting.
From The Emmaus Family Support Blog:
The Saints and Mental Health: St. Raphael, Remedy of God
The story of Tobit and his family reminds us that these answered prayers often come in surprising, disguised ways. A coworker or friend, a bit of scripture or song heard at a time of great need, or, as with Raphael, a lonely traveler seeking employment; all may be secret encounters with the divine reaching out to give answer to the deep need of our hearts...
Praying Through Loneliness by dotMagis Editor
Pray as You Go offers a seven-minute reflection for any of us dealing with loneliness. In response to Isaiah 43, the prayer leader reminds us, “God knows me, claims me, and is with me. I do not need to be afraid, even if I am lonely.”
This reflection is one in a series of mental health awareness exercises from the Jesuits in Britain.
15 Activities for Your Summer Self-Care Checklist By Stephanie Natoli
Summer is a great time to think about self-care. With long sunny days and warmer weather, there are more opportunities than ever to switch up your routine and enjoy what the season has to offer.
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