By Bronia Karniewicz
In the midst of this global COVID-19 pandemic, it is easy to become self-centred and inwardly focused in isolation.
It is imperative we all, in simple ways, affirm the dignity of every person and provide comfort and hope; striving to ensure that no one feels like they must make this journey alone.
However, one of the places this can be the most difficult is in our homes.
Close relationships with those we live with can be nurturing and supportive, but they can also be challenging and difficult. Even more so when we’re dealing with our own difficult emotions.
In March, the Centre for Life, Marriage and Family (CLMF) released the resource, “Managing Anxiety in Times of Stress”, and is recommended for anyone dealing with anxiety amidst this stressful situation.
It also includes some tips on how to talk to your children about the situation, and the importance of looking after our basic needs and taking control of the things we can control.
Download the resource here https://tinyurl.com/y9odf7dc
CLMF is the result of the amalgamation of two Archdiocesan agencies in 2019, formerly known as Catholic Marriage and Fertility Services and Respect Life Office; the Office works toward building a Culture of Life, respecting the dignity of each person from conception till death, and supports marriages and families as a means of strengthening the Church and society.
CLMF provides pre-marriage education, natural fertility education and management, relationship counselling, relationship enrichment, and Family Life Education programs to schools and the broader community.
CLMF also promotes a Culture of Life through information, resources, and publications, and provides education to individuals, couples, schools, parishes, and groups.
In recent weeks, CLMF has adapted workplace practices to ensure all possible courses and services are accessible in an online delivery format. This includes: pre-marriage courses, Natural Fertility Management education and counselling services.
During this working-from-home period, CLMF has also began a monthly publication, From the Desk.
Each issue takes a relevant topic from the areas of Life, Marriage or Family and provides reflections and tips to help integrate faith and daily life.
April is the first edition to be distributed; the issue What Do We Do on Sunday Now? brings reflections and tips on keeping the whole of the Lord’s Day holy, especially for now when we can’t attend Mass.
Download the first edition by Clicking Here
The resource can be printed for distribution or shared online. Resources and information can also be found the CLMF Facebook page (@CLMFPerth). The CLMF team hopes you and your community find these useful!
More than ever before, in this challenging time for our global community, we are called to unite our suffering with the suffering of Christ and discover the kind of faith communities, homes, and families that God is calling us to become.
CLMF continues to offer support and create resources to help people navigate the difficult and unusual situations we are facing.