Emmaus Companions Newsletter
- June 27, 2024
Dear Emmaus Companions,
Warm greetings to each of you! As we continue to support one another in our faith and mental health journeys, we are thrilled to share some exciting updates with you.
We are delighted to announce the upcoming launch of a new Emmaus group dedicated to those struggling with scrupulosity and OCD. If you or someone you know might benefit from spiritual peer support in this area, please reach out to us at beatscruples@hotmail.com or phone/text 306-501-4065.
In other exciting news, Emmaus Support Ministries will soon have our resources and contacts added to the CMHA's listing of mental health resources for Saskatchewan. We are grateful for this opportunity to extend our reach and offer support to even more individuals in need.
As this is our last issue of the Emmaus Companions newsletter for the summer, we want to extend our heartfelt blessings to all our Emmaus Companions and their families and loved ones. Enjoy these summer days, and we look forward to reconnecting in the fall.
Peace and God Bless,
Deacon Eric Gurash
"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.
Strength in Faith: Biblical Wisdom and Strength-Based Peer Support
Taking a strength-based approach in spiritual peer support means emphasizing the empowerment of others by highlighting individuals’ strengths and capabilities. This helps people see themselves as resourceful and resilient, which boosts their confidence and self-efficacy. It fosters positive relationships where strengths are recognized and affirmed, building trust and mutual respect.
Building a Culture of Community Keynote with Archbishop Gudziak, Co-Chair USCCB National Catholic Mental Health Campaign
Archbishop Gudziak of the Ukrainian Catholic Church in Philadelphia discusses the urgent need for mental health awareness within the church. Drawing on personal and historical perspectives, he emphasizes the role of community and relationships in fostering mental well-being. He highlights the impact of trauma, including the war in Ukraine, and shares inspiring stories of resilience and hope. Archbishop Gudziak advocates for a holistic approach to mental health, rooted in faith and community support, echoing the Christian values of love, healing, and togetherness.
Suicide: On Crushing Weight and Never-Ending Love
By Leah Perrault
More deeply than I have ever known anything in my life, that God has poured never-ending unconditional love over me and the whole world for every moment of my existence. That God cried with me for the one I love. I am certain that the Creator and Author of Never-Ending Love is bigger than suicide. All who are weary and burdened have been promised rest, and I will pour out love and rest and compassion on the suffering because it has been poured out on me.
By Leah Perrault
More deeply than I have ever known anything in my life, that God has poured never-ending unconditional love over me and the whole world for every moment of my existence. That God cried with me for the one I love. I am certain that the Creator and Author of Never-Ending Love is bigger than suicide. All who are weary and burdened have been promised rest, and I will pour out love and rest and compassion on the suffering because it has been poured out on me.
What The Mental Health Crisis May Be Missing: Spirituality As A Tool
Faith plays an important role in how people think about a personal sense of purpose, which can lead to lower rates of depression and anxiety. Harold G. Koenig of Duke University conducted a systematic review and found that religiosity and spirituality are, “positively related to optimism, self‐esteem, hope, coping with adversity and lower levels of depression, anxiety, suicidal tendencies and psychotic disorders.”
Help Others Connect
Forward this email to family, friends, or other any others you know who may be living with or accompanying loved ones with mental health challenges. Have you received this from a friend? Click the link below for your own monthly subscription to our Emmaus Companions newsletter.