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Open Letter From the CCCB Permanent Council To the Government of Canada on Permitting Persons Living with Mental Illness to Access Euthanasia/Assisted Suicide
On Tuesday, May 9th, 2023, The Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops (CCCB) wrote an open letter to the Government of Canada expressing their deep concern about expanding Medical Assistance in Dying (MAiD) to persons solely experiencing mental health challenges. Despite opposition from mental health experts and a recent poll showing low support, the expansion is
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Mental health in the Bible: learning from the experiences of David, Elijah, Job, and Paul
Mental health challenges can be difficult for anyone to deal with, but they can be especially difficult for family members trying to support loved ones. You may feel like you are alone in your struggles. It can be helpful to note that many people throughout history faced similar challenges, including several biblical persons you may
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Finding Joy in the Gospel; Positive Psychology and the Spiritual Life
A friend loaned me a book a few months ago that I’ve just picked up again. Christopher Kaczor’s “The Gospel of Happiness” proposes a unique relationship between Christian spiritual practices and this particular psychological approach. While I don’t intend to provide a review of the book itself, I have been intrigued by the strengths-based approach
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Faith and Grief
In addition to directing this Emmaus Family Support ministry, my day job involves working in communications for the Archdiocese of Regina. One aspect of this work includes co-hosting and producing a weekly podcast called “Thinking Faith: The Catholic Podcast.” The recent loss of our family pet, a sweet dog who helped many of us weather
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Mental Health Month Reminds “You Cannot Do it Alone.”
Ps 121 reminds me in my trials and struggles that “my help comes from the Lord,” and not just any lord, but the one who made all the heavens and the earth. This Lord of all creation never slumbers and is my sure and certain keeper; my shade when oppression beats down.
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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…
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Men’s Mental Health: Breaking the Silence Virtual Event Tuesday, May 24, 2022
1 out of every 4 families in our communities are suffering from mental health challenges and for the most part, they are putting most of their energy into surviving and making sure no one knows. Even before this global pandemic, rates of depression, anxiety, mood, and personality disorders were increasing. Further we know that: In
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The Saints and Mental Health: St. Louis Martin and St. Therese of Lisieux
In our continuing series on the Saints and our mental health, we take time today to examine the life experiences of a father and daughter, both of whom struggled with their own mental health challenges. As we examine the experiences of St. Louis Martin and his daughter and Doctor of the Church, St. Therese Lisieux,
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Faith, Grief, and COVID-19: A Virtual Series
Emmaus Family Support Ministries is very happy to announce a virtual mental health series to be hosted through Lent in conjunction with the Archdiocese of Regina, Saskatchewan. Using materials provided by Sanctuary Mental Health Ministries, this four-week series will examine how the wide variety of losses associated with the COVID-19 pandemic has generated grief in
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The Saints and Mental Health: St. Dymphna
One common experience shared by those with mental health challenges and their families is the sense of isolation. Social stigmas, guilt, shame, and the desire to protect loved ones from negative views of others can all contribute to isolating behavior. While it is in no way intended to replace the need for physical, human companionship,
Emmaus Support’s Faith and Mental Health page features stories and articles that illuminate the intersection of spirituality, faith practices, and mental health supports. Here you will discover how these powerful combinations foster resilience, enhance coping skills, and transform the lives of individuals grappling with mental health challenges, as well as the family members and loved ones who walk with them. Join us on this journey of hope and healing as we shed light on the impact of faith in the realm of mental health.
Be a Gentle Presence in Someone’s Storm: Mental Health First Aid
Our Emmaus Companions newsletter helps to maintain contact with other caregivers, resources, and inspiration for the road ahead.
Emmaus Support Mental Health Ministries 