April 3, 2024
Dear Friends in Christ,
I extend a warm invitation to you to join a special event May 15 to mark the observance of the feast day of St. Dymphna and Mental Health Awareness Month. The Archdiocese of Baltimore and Seeds of Hope ministry will host a retreat for mental wellness.
All are welcome, especially those who have lived with mental health challenges, as well as their loved ones. We also want to reach individuals searching for healing after the loss of a loved one to suicide. I also enthusiastically extend our invitation to anyone in our parish and school communities who volunteers – or wants to volunteer – in a mental health ministry.
The retreat will be held from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.. Wednesday, May 15, at the National Shrine of St. Elizabeth Ann Seton in Emmitsburg, the one-time home of the first American-born saint. The cost for attendees is generously covered by the Seeds of Hope program; space is limited.
Please join this day of prayer, formation, support and reflection. Holy Mass will be celebrated, and participants will have a chance to attend breakout sessions, tour the grounds and share a meal. It’s all completely free of charge with advanced registration. Bus transportation is available from Severna Park and Northeast Baltimore for those who sign up in time.
Register by Wednesday, May 1, to guarantee meals and a retreat packet
So many of us these days are facing depression, anxiety, unresolved grief, isolation, marital pressures, and substance abuse. This retreat is a day to come together, to step out of darkness and turn toward one another and the Lord Jesus Christ’s loving and healing sacred heart.
May the Lord bless you and keep you always in His love.
St. Dymphna, pray for us.
Faithfully in Christ,
Most Reverend William E. Lori
Archbishop of Baltimore