The St. Maria Goretti Mental Health Initiative is made possible by a generous grant from the Center for Congregations (CfC), an Indiana non-profit funded by the Lilly Endowment. St. Maria Goretti was one of only 30 congregations in Indiana selected to receive the CfC Mental Health Initiative grant in 2024 and was the only Roman Catholic Church selected. We are so grateful to the CfC for their support and are excited to offer a number of presentations, workshops, small-group faith-sharing sessions, and other programming throughout 2025 to help parishioners and members of the wider community grow in connecting our faith and our mental well-being.
Here are our upcoming Mental Health Initiative programs:
Contemplative Prayer Workshop
May 31 – 8:30 am to 3:30 pm
Presenter: Alan Krema, Contemplative Outreach of Greater Chicago
Alan Krema is a teacher and practitioner of Centering Prayer and contemplative practice and has served in Contemplative Outreach Chicago in a wide variety of roles. He has completed the Living School of the Center for Action and Contemplation and is a graduate of the Shalem Institute for group spiritual leadership.
Centering prayer is a remarkably simple method that opens one to Godʼs gift of contemplative prayer. Its practice expands oneʼs receptivity to the presence and activity of God in oneʼs life. It is a distillation of the practice of monastic spirituality into two relatively short periods of prayer each day.Centering prayer which we practice today was given to us in the 14th century. In recent times, Father Thomas Keating has shown us how this prayer works in us and for us within the context of our modern psychological and cultural makeup. It is prayer to guide us to become fully who we truly are as beloved sons and daughters of Christ. No previous experience is necessary. Bring only your curiosity and your longing to deepen your relationship with God.
Come learn how to experience a form of silent prayer known as Centering Prayer, sitting silently and becoming receptive to God’s gift of contemplation.
Workshop includes lunch.
– RSVP by May 22, using the link below.
More events coming in the fall! Check back soon for details.
These are some of our past Mental Health Initiative programs:
Parish Mission: Exploring the Intersenction Between Faith and Mental Health
April 8, 9, and 10 – 6:30-8:00 pm
Presenter: Dr. Terry Nelson-Johnson, Psychologist and Theologian
Through storytelling, reflection, music, and ritual, for three evenings, acclaimed speaker, Terry Nelson Johnson, will lead us in a dynamic and engaging exploration of how our faith and sacraments enrich our mental health.
Strengthening Your Mental and Spiritual Health and Fitness – Building a Practical Prayer Life
May 7 – 6:30-8:00 pm
Presenter: Rev. Bill Stenzel
Looking to reduce stress and develop resilience while developing a closer connection to God? Searching for some spiritual direction?
Father Bill Stenzel will share a variety of ways to boost your prayer life and bring more peace and joy into your daily life.