63. The Soul
Last week Pope Francis sent us a message, “Having learned of the loss of life and destruction of property caused by the heavy flooding in Lismore, I assure you of my heartfelt solidarity and closeness in prayer to all those affected by this tragedy.”
At Mass on Sunday in Ballina, Bishop Greg spoke of the need to maintain the solidarity of care and resist the urge to blame. Both these pastoral leaders encourage us toward a presence with those suffering, especially our staff and students whose mental health is affected.
Pastoral Care Lead, Karen Evans, writes this week, “During times of uncertainty, it is natural to have feelings of helplessness and disengagement. Spirituality can be an important aspect of building resilience as it contributes to adaptive coping as well as interior growth following a traumatic event. It is important that the students know that they have the skills to make a difference when there are challenges and to find strength in their relationship with God through prayer.”
She goes on, “According to Emerging Minds, the majority of children will be fine. You can expect most children to recover over time from some initial sadness, worry and distress. Students may need continued reassurance, stability and support from you and those around them. Some children will need extra support. All students need time, love, patience, care and a stable routine in the months following a traumatic event.”
Karen has shared some excellent resources and information that have been produced into easy to read PDF documents in this week's special edition of The Soul.
Gary Reen - Assistant Director Mission
Pope Francis has asked that this Friday be marked by prayer for peace in Ukraine. He will consecrate Russia and Ukraine to the Immaculate Heart of Mary, along with the Bishops of the world, during a penitential service in Rome, 25 March, 5PM CET. On Friday schools, staff and students are invited to pray for peace. It is asked that a decade of the Rosary be included.
Read more here.
- Staff Wellbeing - Important wellbeing strategies for self-care and options for ongoing support.
- Survivor’s Guilt - It is normal to experience feelings of guilt after a difficult event. This article offers strategies on how to ease the impact of survivor's guilt.
- After a Natural Disaster: Caring Conversations - A useful resource for navigating difficult conversations with students.
- Promoting Student Recovery as a Community - A comprehensive guide filled with relevant information and tips on supporting students as a school community.
- Trauma and Behaviour - A resource identifying the stages, emotions and behaviours students go through after experiencing trauma and how to best support them in a school environment.
- Anxiety Intervention Free - Primary Schools - Information on how to offer parents the opportunity to complete an anxiety intervention with their child through a free online program.
Embracing this season of Lent, Moments of Mercy is an orchestral reminder of God’s constant presence in all our life experiences. His mercy not only comforts us in times of trouble but lifts us out of our pain into the joy of the Gospel. Moments of Mercy is a call to surrender to Jesus and to invite His great mercy to fill our hearts. Featuring two new singles and three reimagined tracks, the album releases this Friday on Spotify, Apple Music and YouTube.
- Stand By Me (Kingdom Choir) - “For where two or three are gathered in my name, I am there among them.” (Matthew 18:20)
- Breathe (Maverick City Music) - In times of trial and tribulation, God calls us to pause, release our heavy burdens and breathe.
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