21. The Soul
The Soul returns this term with a continued focus on providing Catholic School staff in the Diocese of Lismore with support for well-being and spiritual communion as new waves of COVID-19 emerge in our country.
We hope the break has provided respite from the work but it is quite normal for excitement and anxiety to return as we begin another term. With resolve emboldened in faith, and a commitment to self-care, let’s once again focus on our students as we accompany them into Term 3.
Last year at the Proclaim Lismore Staff days Jesse Manibusan challenged us all towards an ideal of ‘radical’ hospitality. Do you remember this activity we participated in?
Imagine what radical hospitality and belonging look like?
We might imagine our school as a place where every student and staff member is welcomed, accepted and loved for who they are - a beloved of God who intrinsically belongs. We never really know what a person might be feeling or going through when they set foot in our school. By offering a genuine smile, a sincere greeting or an encouraging chat, we invite others into the same experience of transformation people had hundreds of years ago through their encounter with Jesus; they were welcomed, seen and loved.
Now imagine if we offered the same radical hospitality and belonging to ourselves? What if we became deeply aware that we are a beloved of God who is welcomed and intrinsically belongs. What if we extended more kindness to ourselves? More time to our self-care and wellbeing? As we care for ourselves, we create greater space and presence to care for others. By realising the truth of who we really are, we begin to see and welcome others as who they truly are.
We genuinely welcome you back. You are welcomed. You are seen. You belong.
Welcome the Stranger
A reflection by Fr Peter Slack
Where do we find help to quell our fears and focus on our self-care in times of anxiety? Beyond Blue is an organisation that provides information and support to help everyone in Australia achieve their best possible mental health, whatever their age and wherever they live. This list of ten ways to take care of yourself during coronavirus is just one of the great resources on offer in the Coronavirus Mental Wellbeing Support Service section of their website.
Free and confidential counselling is available through AccessEAP - an organisation designed to create thriving workplaces that promote, recognise and effectively manage the mental health of every employee.
Freecall - 1800 81 87 28 or visit the website Access EAP.
The ABC’s Mental Health week (July 5-11) featured a number of familiar faces writing letters to their younger self about some of the mental health challenges they faced growing up. In this video Anthony Field, of Wiggles fame, tells his story with the best advice from his Dad: “Forgive yourself - you’re only human”.
- New Wine by Hillsong Worship - Listen to this beautiful acoustic version from Hillsong for some inspiration while contemplating radical hospitality for yourself and those around us.
- Reckless Love/ O Come to the Altar/ Great Are You Lord by Tauren Wells - Enjoy this worship medley of hymns popular with students participating in the Proclaim Lismore Student Discipleship Continuum.
- Yes and Amen by Nathan Moore - This Proclaim Lismore Staff 2019 favourite reminds us how faithful God is and will always be.
- Register for the Beyond Blue Be You events. These events provide an opportunity for educators to engage with and learn from others. There are a number of events to choose from, supporting individual educators and Action Teams to progress their Be You journey.
Click the image above to submit your prayer intentions. These will be included in the weekly Divine Mercy Chaplet
Stay in touch through social media.
Proclaim Lismore Staff
All staff in Catholic Schools in the Diocese of Lismore receive The Soul by email. The link in these emails can be forwarded and shared with family and friends. Alternatively, use this form to subscribe as an additional reader to The Soul mailing list.