Emmaus Companions Newsletter - October 30, 2023
Hello Everyone,
As this Mental Health awareness month of October draws to a wintery end here in Saskatchewan, I hope you have been able to find time to engage in those things that bring you joy, health, and healing.
This month's issue of our Emmaus Companions newsletter provides us with a variety of ways to navigate those times when finding joy and caring for ourselves and others are challenging.
Of particular interest is Lisa Canning's video address given on the occasion of the Archdiocese of Regina's Fall Congress and Appeal Kick-off. Lisa took some time to outline her 6 strategies for trusting in God during times of trial. As she examines acceptance, reliance on scripture, reliance on community, recalling what is true, giving our brains evidence of God's providence, and gratitude, I hope you discover new ways to increase your own capacity for healthy resiliency and fullness of life.
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
Emmaus Support Group:
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:
Mental Health in the Bible: Learning from Leah, Hannah, Jeremiah, and Naomi
Following up on a previous examination of biblical figures and mental health, this month we look at four more well-known figures whose faith helped them to navigate a variety of challenging mental health experiences.
Lisa Canning: Trust God in Times of Trial
The 'Possibility Mom' and Archdiocese of Regina Congress 2023 Keynote speaker, Lisa Canning shares her six tips for recognizing God's abundant generosity and trusting God in times of trial.
Giving Myself Permission to Feel: What I’ve Learned From Bringing Anger, Sadness, and Grief to God - By Anna Maria Sevilla
In my own life, I have experienced difficulty accepting feelings of sadness, anger, frustration, and fear. As a Catholic, I thought I needed to be always joyful and optimistic about life. I thought I needed to be like the great saints who, even in the midst of terrible suffering and struggles, had such peace and joy, and spread it to others. This is how I thought, yet, by denying my feelings, I denied my ability to be able to get to a place where I would have that peace and joy.
In my own life, I have experienced difficulty accepting feelings of sadness, anger, frustration, and fear. As a Catholic, I thought I needed to be always joyful and optimistic about life. I thought I needed to be like the great saints who, even in the midst of terrible suffering and struggles, had such peace and joy, and spread it to others. This is how I thought, yet, by denying my feelings, I denied my ability to be able to get to a place where I would have that peace and joy.
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Join Fr. Ron Rolheiser for "Navigating Conversations After Suicide Loss" . Caro Brookings is hosting an interview series. She's gathered over 20 experts, authors, and support providers in the suicide loss space who are ready to empower YOU to ensure your loved one is never forgotten. This is a FREE 5-day interview series, which begins on November 6. Save your seat now by clicking here: