Hope Stories with Sr. Josephine Garrett, CSFN

In this episode of the Hope Stories podcast, Sister Josephine Garrett welcomes her close friend Betsy Jenkins, a dedicated mother of two boys diagnosed with autism and ADHD. Betsy shares her heartfelt journey, from the early diagnosis of her sons to the struggles and triumphs of managing their conditions. She discusses how her background in child development prepared her to advocate for her children and how her faith in God has played a crucial role in her family's life. Betsy also reflects on the support and challenges she has faced within the educational system and the Catholic Church and how her husband's unwavering support has helped them navigate their path together. This episode is a touching exploration of resilience, faith, and the unyielding love of a mother.Links:What is Autism Spectrum Disorder?Parenting Students with Learning DifferencesPatron Saint for this Episode: Saint Thorlak of IcelandThis episode is sponsored by Box of Joy®. Donate a Box of Joy at boxofjoy.org.Box of Joy is a ministry of Cross Catholic Outreach. Journey to a new depth of hope, even in seemingly impossible circumstances, with Sr. Josephine in her new book HOPE: An Invitation. Available at osvcatholicbookstore.com. Discover more ways to live, learn, and love your Catholic faith at osvpodcasts.com. Sharing stories, starting conversations.Learn more about Sr. Josephine at: https://nazarethcsfn.org/https://www.instagram.com/sr_josephine/

In this episode of Hope Stories, Sister Josephine Garrett talks with Emily Dery, a multi-passionate mother of four, about the challenges of postpartum depression and anxiety. Emily shares her personal experiences with three of her pregnancies, the varied symptoms she faced, and how it impacted her family life. She reflects on her path to diagnosis, the support systems that helped her, and the role of her faith and family in her recovery. The conversation dives deep into the importance of mental health awareness, seeking help, and the transformative power of love and support in overcoming life's struggles.Links: Nothing Without God: Finding Faith and Healing PostpartumRose Hawthorne Declared ‘Venerable’Pregnant and Postpartum WomenIdentifying Maternal DepressionEmily Dery's Music YouTube PageThis episode is sponsored by Box of Joy. Learn more by visiting boxofjoy.orgJourney to a new depth of hope, even in seemingly impossible circumstances, with Sr. Josephine in her new book HOPE: An Invitation. Available at osvcatholicbookstore.com. Discover more ways to live, learn, and love your Catholic faith at osvpodcasts.com. Sharing stories, starting conversations.Learn more about Sr. Josephine at: https://nazarethcsfn.org/https://www.instagram.com/sr_josephine/

In this episode of Hope Stories with Sister Josephine Garrett, Amanda Smith, a Catholic therapist and executive director at NAMI, shares her insights on borderline personality disorder (BPD) and the transformative potential of dialectical behavior therapy (DBT). They discuss the profound emotional pain and fear of abandonment experienced by individuals with BPD, the societal and self-stigmatization of the disorder, and the importance of early intervention and treatment. Amanda emphasizes the intersection of faith and therapy, highlighting how internalizing God's unconditional love can aid in the healing process. The episode also explores Amanda's experiences with burnout and the emotional toll of working with underserved populations, calling for increased compassion and understanding towards those with personality disorders.Blessed Eustochium Bellini, Pray for us. Links: Amanda's Website Hope for BPDAmanda's Amazon Author PageInformation on BPDHelpful therapy approach for personality disordersLearn all about Blessed Eustochium BellinJourney to a new depth of hope, even in seemingly impossible circumstances, with Sr. Josephine in her new book HOPE: An Invitation. Available at osvcatholicbookstore.com. Discover more ways to live, learn, and love your Catholic faith at osvpodcasts.com. Sharing stories, starting conversations.Learn more about Sr. Josephine at: https://nazarethcsfn.org/https://www.instagram.com/sr_josephine/

In this episode of the Hope Stories podcast, Sister Josephine Garrett welcomes her lifelong friend Maribel Laguna, a licensed professional counselor supervisor and founder of Cor Sacrum Counseling and Consulting. They discuss the unique experiences of first-generation Mexican American women and the mental health challenges they face navigating multiple cultural worlds. Maribel shares her personal journey towards integration and healing through therapy and EMDR, as well as her appreciation for her Latin American heritage and faith. The episode also touches on her role in counseling seminarians and clergy, emphasizing the importance of authentic human relationships. Maribel's story is one of self-acceptance, faith, and the journey towards finding home within one's cultural identity."Those who remain silent are responsible" Saint Teresa Benedicta of the Cross (Edith Stein) Links: Maribel's Practice: Cor Sacrum Counseling & ConsultingCatholic Psychotherapy Association Journey to a new depth of hope, even in seemingly impossible circumstances, with Sr. Josephine in her new book HOPE: An Invitation. Available at osvcatholicbookstore.com. Discover more ways to live, learn, and love your Catholic faith at osvpodcasts.com. Sharing stories, starting conversations.Learn more about Sr. Josephine at: https://nazarethcsfn.org/https://www.instagram.com/sr_josephine/

In this episode of the Hope Stories podcast, Sister Josephine Garrett explores the deeply personal and often overlooked experience of infertility with Anne Koshute, co-founder of the Catholic infertility ministry, Springs in the Desert. Anne shares her journey of dealing with infertility, its mental health implications, and the complex emotions of grief, shame, and identity it brings. The conversation highlights the importance of pastoral care in the church, the support needed from clergy, and the need for a deeper understanding of fruitfulness within marriage beyond biological children. Anne's story underscores the significance of mutual support in marriage and finding hope and purpose amidst suffering through faith.Links: Springs in the Desert | Catholic Infertility Ministry (Co-founded by Ann)Episode Patron: Venerable Mother LuisitaBook Recommendation / Holding Space for Joy: A Prayer Companion for Women Struggling with Infertility by Mary Bruno (OSV Publishing)Blog: In a Church That Glorifies Motherhood, This Is How I Cope with Infertility by Julie TaylorJourney to a new depth of hope, even in seemingly impossible circumstances, with Sr. Josephine in her new book HOPE: An Invitation. Available at osvcatholicbookstore.com. Discover more ways to live, learn, and love your Catholic faith at osvpodcasts.com. Sharing stories, starting conversations.Learn more about Sr. Josephine at: https://nazarethcsfn.org/https://www.instagram.com/sr_josephine/

In this episode of the Hope Stories podcast, Sister Josephine discusses the vital topic of attachment with Rebecca Schall, LPC, a licensed professional counselor from East Texas. Rebecca delves into the intricacies of attachment wounds—emotional injuries from unmet relational needs—and their impact on mental health and faith. She shares her personal journey of overcoming attachment wounds through God's relentless love and professional counseling. The discussion highlights the integration of clinical practices like EMDR with Christian anthropology to foster healing. Rebecca emphasizes the importance of understanding our attachment styles, seeking healthy relationships, encountering Christ in our wounds, and striving for holiness in community.Links: More about Rebecca SchallHow We Love QuizHow We Love BookWhat is attachment theory?Anxiety and Depression Association of AmericaPatron Saint for this Episode: Bl. Francisa de Paula de Jesus IsabelJourney to a new depth of hope, even in seemingly impossible circumstances, with Sr. Josephine in her new book HOPE: An Invitation. Available at osvcatholicbookstore.com. Discover more ways to live, learn, and love your Catholic faith at osvpodcasts.com. Sharing stories, starting conversations.Learn more about Sr. Josephine at: https://nazarethcsfn.org/https://www.instagram.com/sr_josephine/

In this episode, Chris Miller shares his personal journey battling depression and his extensive work in mental health education and advocacy. As a Silicon Valley resident, school teacher, and youth minister, Chris discusses the impact of depression on his life, the importance of hope, and the various coping mechanisms he's employed, including medication and therapy. Chris also discusses his involvement in legislative and pastoral efforts to improve mental health awareness and support. His story emphasizes the significance of a holistic and integrative approach to mental health, combining professional treatment with spiritual guidance.Links: St. Albert ChmielowskiVarious fact sheets on forms of depressionWhat is Depression?USCCB Mental Health CoalitionNFCYM Ministry Network for Pastoral Care and Mental HealthNational Catholic Partnership for DisabilityCalifornia Catholic Conference Statement on Mental HealthPastoral Response to Persons with Mental IllnessGaudium et spes, "On the Church in the Modern World" encyclicalPastoral Response to Persons with Mental IllnessSaints who confronted suicidal thoughtsNational Catholic Mental Health Campaign, USCCB Introductory StatementsNational Suicide Prevention Lifeline (USA): 1-800-273-TALK (8255) or text "HELLO" to 741741 https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org/Crisis Text Line (USA): Text "HELLO" to 741741 https://www.crisistextline.org/Journey to a new depth of hope, even in seemingly impossible circumstances, with Sr. Josephine in her new book HOPE: An Invitation. Available at osvcatholicbookstore.com. Discover more ways to live, learn, and love your Catholic faith at osvpodcasts.com. Sharing stories, starting conversations.Learn more about Sr. Josephine at: https://nazarethcsfn.org/https://www.instagram.com/sr_josephine/

This episode discusses mature topics surrounding mental health and includes a mention of suicidal ideation. If you are in crisis, please call, the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 988, or text or chat with the Crisis Text Line by texting TALK to 741741.In this episode of 'Hope Stories,' the focus is on the complex and deeply spiritual reality of adoption. Guest Jess Echeverry shares her profound personal experiences with adoption, homelessness, and trauma. Through her testimony, Jess reveals the deep pain and eventual redemption found in her journey, emphasizing the importance of embracing both suffering and resurrection in the context of adoption. Additionally, Jess discusses mental health realities, including postpartum depression, identity struggles, and the need for developmental awareness in adoptive families. This episode is a compelling exploration of the intertwining of personal suffering, spiritual growth, and the redemptive love of Christ.This episode is placed into the care of St. Mbaaga Tuzinde, patron saint of victims of human trafficking abuse. St. Mbaaga Tuzinde, pray for us! Links: Saint Mbaaga Tuzinde Jess Echevery Website Jess Echevery's Non-Profit (Supporting Families and those Experiencing with Homelessness)Resources for Adoption from Psychology Today Anxiety and Depression Association of AmericaNational Catholic Mental Health Campaign, USCCB Introductory StatementsNational Suicide Prevention Lifeline (USA): 1-800-273-TALK (8255) or text "HELLO" to 741741 https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org/Crisis Text Line (USA): Text "HELLO" to 741741 https://www.crisistextline.org/Journey to a new depth of hope, even in seemingly impossible circumstances, with Sr. Josephine in her new book HOPE: An Invitation. Available at osvcatholicbookstore.com. Discover more ways to live, learn, and love your Catholic faith at osvpodcasts.com. Sharing stories, starting conversations.Learn more about Sr. Josephine at: https://nazarethcsfn.org/https://www.instagram.com/sr_josephine/

Bishop James Conley of Lincoln, Nebraska, shares a deeply personal account of his struggle with anxiety and depression, largely triggered by the clergy abuse scandal. Bishop Conley recounts how his overwhelming responsibilities and traumatic events led to a profound psychological crisis, resulting in a diagnosis of PTSD and major depressive disorder. Seeking healing, he took a leave of absence, during which he received medical, psychological, and spiritual support. Throughout his journey, key relationships played a vital role in his recovery. Bishop Conley's testimony emphasizes the importance of reaching out, the power of community and relationships, and finding hope through faith, even in the darkest times. Links: USCCB Resource Page on How to Report AbusePTSD: National Center for PTSDAnxiety and Depression Association of AmericaBlessed Rutilio Grande, SJThis episode references the Catholic Church clergy abuse scandal in general terms. Please listen with care. Journey to a new depth of hope, even in seemingly impossible circumstances, with Sr. Josephine in her new book HOPE: An Invitation. Available at osvcatholicbookstore.com. Discover more ways to live, learn, and love your Catholic faith at osvpodcasts.com. Sharing stories, starting conversations.Learn more about Sr. Josephine at: https://nazarethcsfn.org/https://www.instagram.com/sr_josephine/

Sister Josephine welcomes guest Hope Acquilano, a childhood sexual abuse survivor. Hope shares deeply moving testimony of trauma and healing, revealing her struggles with PTSD, flashbacks, and shame. She discusses the crucial role of trauma-informed therapy and EMDR in her recovery and God's presence in her journey. The episode emphasizes the importance of bringing trauma into the light for healing and to encourage survivors to seek help. This episode is placed into the care of St. Josephine Bakhita, patron saint of victims of human trafficking abuse. St. Josephine Bakhita, pray for us! Links: PTSD: National Center for PTSDWhat is EMDR therapy?St. Josephine Bakhita by Meg Hunter-KilmerGaudium et spes, "On the Church in the Modern World" encyclicalSaints who survived abuse“Painting the Faces of Holiness”: An Interview with Hope AcquilanoKitchen House Studio by Hope AcquilanoHope's Instagram CLICK HEREThis episode is sponsored by Sacred Heart Major SeminaryUNLEASHING THE POWER OF THE EARLY CHURCHStudy "Acts of the Apostles" with Dr. Mary Healy online at Sacred Heart Major Seminary. CLICK HEREJourney to a new depth of hope, even in seemingly impossible circumstances, with Sr. Josephine in her new book HOPE: An Invitation. Available at osvcatholicbookstore.com. Discover more ways to live, learn, and love your Catholic faith at osvpodcasts.com. Sharing stories, starting conversations.Learn more about Sr. Josephine at: https://nazarethcsfn.org/https://www.instagram.com/sr_josephine/

This episode discusses mature topics surrounding mental health and includes a mention of suicidal ideation. If you are in crisis, please call, the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 988, or text or chat with the Crisis Text Line by texting TALK to 741741. Sister Josephine welcomes her first guest of Season 2, Christian Bentley, to discuss his experience living with bipolar disorder. Christian shares his journey through the highs and lows of the illness, his struggles with suicidal thoughts, and the stigma surrounding mental health. He emphasizes the importance of self acceptance, faith, and the sacrament of confession in managing his condition. With personal anecdotes and profound wisdom, Christian offers hope and encouragement to others living with mental health challenges. July is National Minority Mental Health Awareness Month. To learn more, click here.Links: Christian Bentley's InstagramPastoral Response to Persons with Mental IllnessDepression and Bipolar Support Alliance (DBSA)Gaudium et spes, "On the Church in the Modern World" encyclicalPastoral Response to Persons with Mental IllnessFrom “Mean Girl” to Saint, the story of HyacinthaSaints who confronted suicidal thoughtsNational Catholic Mental Health Campaign, USCCB Introductory StatementsNational Suicide Prevention Lifeline (USA): 1-800-273-TALK (8255) or text "HELLO" to 741741 https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org/Crisis Text Line (USA): Text "HELLO" to 741741 https://www.crisistextline.org/This episode is sponsored by Catholic Charities USA. Help Catholic Charities serve your neighbors in need by joining us at www.WeAreThere.US. Journey to a new depth of hope, even in seemingly impossible circumstances, with Sr. Josephine in her new book HOPE: An Invitation. Available at osvcatholicbookstore.com. Discover more ways to live, learn, and love your Catholic faith at osvpodcasts.com. Sharing stories, starting conversations.Learn more about Sr. Josephine at: https://nazarethcsfn.org/https://www.instagram.com/sr_josephine/

Sister Josephine Garrett, CSFN, welcomes listeners to season 2 of Hope Stories, which will explore both the challenges and hope found in a wide-ranging discussion on a variety of mental health topics and conditions. Sister Josephine shares her journey, the challenges faced, and the insights gained while intertwining her spiritual and professional experiences as a mental health counselor. The conclusion is that every part of one's self, including mental health struggles, can be offered as a gift to the Church, fostering hope, resilience, and even joy in the face of suffering.NOTES00:00 Introduction and Welcome02:16 Reflecting on Season One06:46 The Need for Mental Health Awareness09:22 Challenges in Mental Health Ministry14:02 Vision for the New Season14:59 Personal Reflections and ConclusionGaudium et spes, "On the Church in the Modern World" encyclicalNational Catholic Mental Health Campaign, USCCB Introductory StatementsJourney to a new depth of hope, even in seemingly impossible circumstances, with Sr. Josephine in her new book HOPE: An Invitation. Available at osvcatholicbookstore.com. Discover more ways to live, learn, and love your Catholic faith at osvpodcasts.com. Sharing stories, starting conversations.Learn more about Sr. Josephine at: https://nazarethcsfn.org/https://www.instagram.com/sr_josephine/

Bishop Shelton Fabre, Archbishop for the Archdiocese of Louisville and former chair of the USCCB Ad Hoc Committee Against Racism (2018 to 2023), sits down with Sr. Josephine for the last episode of Hope Stories season one. ResourcesArchdiocese of LouisvilleAd Hoc Committee Against Racism, United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB)Journey to a new depth of hope, even in seemingly impossible circumstances, with Sr. Josephine in her new book HOPE: An Invitation. Available at osvcatholicbookstore.com. Discover more ways to live, learn, and love your Catholic faith at osvpodcasts.com. Sharing stories, starting conversations.Learn more about Sr. Josephine at: https://nazarethcsfn.org/https://www.instagram.com/sr_josephine/

Sr. Josephine Garrett is joined by her parents, Aunt Dee and Uncle Billy, for a moving discussion about loving well, praying through struggle, seeing blessings, and recognizing the awesome gift of God's mercies. NOTESWhat We Have Seen and Heard: A Pastoral Letter on Evangelization from the Black Bishops of the United StatesSr. Thea Bowman’s June 1989 Address to U.S. Catholic BishopsDemystifying Catholic Terms, with Sr. JosephineThis episode is sponsored by the U.S. bishops' 9 Days for Life NovenaJoin the U.S. bishops’ pro-life novena from January 16 through January 24www.9daysforlife.comJourney to a new depth of hope, even in seemingly impossible circumstances, with Sr. Josephine in her new book HOPE: An Invitation. Available at osvcatholicbookstore.com. Discover more ways to live, learn, and love your Catholic faith at osvpodcasts.com. Sharing stories, starting conversations.Learn more about Sr. Josephine at: https://nazarethcsfn.org/https://www.instagram.com/sr_josephine/

Sister Josephine is joined by her friend and fellow Catholic speaker Chika Anyanwu to talk about life as a missionary, staying authentic while preaching the Gospel, and how her Nigerian roots and immigrant perspective shapes her faith and role within the Church. Resources: Chika's websiteMy Encounter: How I Met Jesus in Prayer by Chika AnyanwuThis episode is sponsored by GIA PublicationsThe Fire This Time:  A Black Catholic SourcebookPromo Code:  HOPE10CLICK HEREJourney to a new depth of hope, even in seemingly impossible circumstances, with Sr. Josephine in her new book HOPE: An Invitation. Available at osvcatholicbookstore.com. Discover more ways to live, learn, and love your Catholic faith at osvpodcasts.com. Sharing stories, starting conversations.Learn more about Sr. Josephine at: https://nazarethcsfn.org/https://www.instagram.com/sr_josephine/

Sister Josephine shares an intimate, moving conversation with Jennifer Monette about the struggles and hope found through single parenting as a faithful Catholic. This episode is sponsored by GIA PublicationsThe Fire This Time:  A Black Catholic SourcebookPromo Code:  HOPE10CLICK HEREJourney to a new depth of hope, even in seemingly impossible circumstances, with Sr. Josephine in her new book HOPE: An Invitation. Available at osvcatholicbookstore.com. Discover more ways to live, learn, and love your Catholic faith at osvpodcasts.com. Sharing stories, starting conversations.Learn more about Sr. Josephine at: https://nazarethcsfn.org/https://www.instagram.com/sr_josephine/

Sr. Josephine sits down with the parents of Deanna Johnston (previous episode), Deacon Chip and Anne Marie Jones, about their faith journeys to and within the Catholic Church, from the perspective of individuals and as a married couple raising children in the faith. And they share the beautiful witness and steadfast faith of Anne Marie during a period of illness. Follow Deacon Chip on his blog Tall, Bald, and Called. Deacon Chip currently serves at The Catholic Church of the Nativity in Bartlett, TN.This episode is sponsored by GIA PublicationsThe Fire This Time:  A Black Catholic SourcebookPromo Code:  HOPE10CLICK HEREJourney to a new depth of hope, even in seemingly impossible circumstances, with Sr. Josephine in her new book HOPE: An Invitation. Available at osvcatholicbookstore.com. Discover more ways to live, learn, and love your Catholic faith at osvpodcasts.com. Sharing stories, starting conversations.Learn more about Sr. Josephine at: https://nazarethcsfn.org/https://www.instagram.com/sr_josephine/

Busy mom of four and Director of Marriage and Family Life in the Diocese of Tyler, Deanna Johnston, reminds us all how God invites us all to give everything to Him, even our messes. Sr. Josephine and Deanna share an honest, enlightening conversation about what it feels like to navigate not "feeling Black enough" and belonging to the Body of Christ. Deanna's ministry connections:St. Philip Institute of Catechesis and Evangelization, Diocese of Tyler, TXWitness to LoveFollow Deanna on X @deannamj131.This episode is sponsored by The Catholic Theology Show with Dr. Michael Dauphinais, https://catholic-theology-show.castos.com/Journey to a new depth of hope, even in seemingly impossible circumstances, with Sr. Josephine in her new book HOPE: An Invitation. Available at osvcatholicbookstore.com. Discover more ways to live, learn, and love your Catholic faith at osvpodcasts.com. Sharing stories, starting conversations.Learn more about Sr. Josephine at: https://nazarethcsfn.org/https://www.instagram.com/sr_josephine/

In this episode Sr. Josephine sits down with fellow Catholic podcaster and speaker Gloria Purvis to learn about the deep hope that has guided and inspired Gloria's life. This conversation is a treat -- an intimate, tender conversation between dear friends. Follow Gloria on instagram @iamgloriapurvis. This episode is sponsored by Sacred Heart Major Seminary. Visit shms.edu/online to learn more. Journey to a new depth of hope, even in seemingly impossible circumstances, with Sr. Josephine in her new book HOPE: An Invitation. Available at osvcatholicbookstore.com. Discover more ways to live, learn, and love your Catholic faith at osvpodcasts.com. Sharing stories, starting conversations.Learn more about Sr. Josephine at: https://nazarethcsfn.org/https://www.instagram.com/sr_josephine/

This episode is sponsored by: Ave Maria Press with Regina Boyd's new book Leaving Loneliness Behind. Tired of feeling lonely? Regina Boyd’s NEW book Leaving Loneliness Behind will help you build meaningful relationships and will cover the five keys to emotional intimacy: connection, vulnerability, conflict and communication, healing, and self-gift.  Get your copy now at avemariapress.com and don't miss the companion workbook and a FREE video series!Visit: www.avemariapress.comJourney to a new depth of hope, even in seemingly impossible circumstances, with Sr. Josephine in her new book HOPE: An Invitation. Available at osvcatholicbookstore.com. Discover more ways to live, learn, and love your Catholic faith at osvpodcasts.com. Sharing stories, starting conversations.Learn more about Sr. Josephine at: https://nazarethcsfn.org/https://www.instagram.com/sr_josephine/