In today’s show, co-hosts Deacon Richard Hudzik and Deacon Dave Brencic interview Connie Rakitan of Faith and Fellowship, as well as Deacon Al Sedivy. Both guests address ministerial outreach to those who endure mental illness, together with those who accompany and love those so afflicted. Both initiatives are connected with the Archdiocese’s Commission on Mental Illness. The origins of Faith and Fellowship, its present course and outreach are explained. In a word or two that doesn’t do justice to what they do, Faith and Fellowship is a way for those with mental illness to be accompanied in seeing their experiences as part of everyone’s walk with the Lord. Loving support, companionship and talk about our Faith is offered in structured small groups. For information about Faith and Fellowship, you can email faith_fellowship@hotmail.com or call 708.383.9276 or go to the website at https://www.archchicago.org/offices-and-ministries/persons-with-disabilities.
The other initiative, Moving Forward in Hope, was outlined by Deacon Al Sedivy. These monthly Zoom meetings are ways for family and those with mental illness to pray together for one hour one day a month. People are able to register on a monthly basis to join the conversation and prayer. A Scripture passage is chosen and discussed in small break-out groups. No prior experience with Scripture is expected. The only requirement is to have an open heart and a willingness to at least listen to others pray and reflect. The meetings are on the fourth Tuesdays of the month at 7 PM. You can register by emailing Deacon Tom Lambert at olmcinfo2@aol.com or using the contact information for the Archdiocesan Commission on Mental Illness at https://www.archchicago.org/offices-and-ministries/persons-with-disabilities.
