Home » Articles » Renew & Reflect
Renew and Reflect
Small Steps for Long-Lasting Change

Even when change is positive, the experience can be overwhelming. How do we keep ourselves on track and stay positive and focused to achieve our desired outcomes?

Continue Reading

Navigating Differences with Grace

What to do when our differences – political, cultural, religious or otherwise – prevent us from connecting with others.

Continue Reading

When Listening Matters Most

In these complicated times, being an intentional, compassionate listener can be the most helpful way to support someone who is struggling.

Continue Reading

Strategies for De-escalating Conflict

When tensions run high, often the best short-term solution is conflict de-escalation to help ensure the immediate conflict does not spiral out of control.

Continue Reading

Healthy Habits for the Holidays

Exercising and eating and sleeping well can help us prepare for the stress of the holidays.

Continue Reading

Managing Interpersonal Tensions

Tips for alleviating the inevitable tensions of too much togetherness.

Continue Reading

The Goodness of Anger

Addressing anger directly can mend and even strengthen relationships.

Continue Reading

Finding Meaning in Challenging Times

Loss of meaning is often the quickest path to burnout.

Continue Reading

Finding Your Inner Contemplative

Consider using this time of social distancing to focus your gaze more intensely on the bit of God’s creation right around and within you.

Continue Reading

Keys to Psychological Stability

Simple strategies for maintaining emotional and psychological health.

Continue Reading

Participating in the Sacraments during Social Distancing

Practical ways to experience the sacraments, even in isolation.

Continue Reading

Depression Warning Signs

Signs and symptoms that it may be time to seek support.

Continue Reading

How to Pray in Times of Crisis

Prayer can help us experience hope in these difficult times.

Continue Reading

Tending the Flame: Spirituality in Times of Stress

Even in today’s context of disruption and uncertainty, prayer and ritual are possible, and they are more important than ever.

Continue Reading

Managing Coronavirus Anxiety

Practical strategies for managing the psychological impact of the coronavirus pandemic.

Continue Reading

Manage the Moment: Strategies for De-escalation

Tips for de-escalation and effective communication in the heat of the moment.

Continue Reading

Prayer and Spiritual Life in Times of Stress

Prayer can guide us and provide great comfort. Seek to develop a daily discipline of quiet and receptivity to God.

Continue Reading

Priest Support Groups: Recommendations and Resources

Taking the time to design a support group that meets the participants’ needs can positively impact the group dynamic and maximize the interpersonal and developmental benefits for the participants.

Continue Reading

Suicide Prevention: Ask the Question Directly to Save a Life

Learning more about suicide can help us build the courage to face this issue head on, ultimately saving lives and helping heal those we serve.

Continue Reading

The Facts About Dementia

Explore the characteristics of and differences among the four most common types of dementia.

Continue Reading

Every Z Counts: The Importance of Sleep

Learn why getting that extra bit of good sleep matters.

Continue Reading

Mindfulness and Stress Relief

Practicing simple mindfulness techniques can provide consistent relief from stress.

Continue Reading

Stress Reducing Foods

Six super-foods to diminish stress

Continue Reading

Tips for Managing Anxiety

Battle panic or rising anxiety by finding practical ways to relax in the moment.

Continue Reading

Finding your Digital Media Balance

Technology can help us connect with parishioners and seekers, but only if we set healthy boundaries for digital communication.

Continue Reading

Reducing Social Media Stress

Social media can cause stress! Some simple coping strategies may help.

Continue Reading

Authentic Communication in a Digital Age

Capuchin Father David Songy explores intentionality in our use of technology.

Continue Reading

Setting Digital Boundaries

Tips for healthy technology use

Continue Reading

The Importance of Self-Compassion

Treating ourselves kindly when confronted with personal failures can improve emotional well-being and increase our ability to withstand the impact of negative events.

Continue Reading

Understanding Cultural Differences

Insights into cross-cultural ministry from Rev. David Songy, O.F.M. Cap., S.T.D., Psy.D., President of Saint Luke Institute.

Continue Reading

Helping Shared Parishes Succeed

Recommendations from Mar Muñoz-Visoso, Executive Director, Secretariat for Cultural Diversity, USCCB.

Continue Reading

Supporting Successful Ministry for International Priests and Religious

International priests and religious who come to serve in the United States need a strong community to help ease their transition.

Continue Reading

Successful Sleep Habits

Six to eight hours of good sleep per night is one of the most effective ways to give the body the strength it needs to handle stress.

Continue Reading

Family Breakdown May Increase Burnout Rates of Newly Ordained Priests

High-quality ongoing human formation is necessary to support young priests who potentially face high burnout rates.

Continue Reading

Allow God to Work through Natural “Touch Points”

Build a stronger prayer life by identifying regular “touch points” in which one naturally encounters God.

Continue Reading

Building Resilience through Healthy Relationships

We can develop resilience in ourselves and handle hardship more effectively by cultivating good self-esteem and nurturing healthy relationships.

Continue Reading

Easy Exercises to Prevent Pain

Re-establishing good posture is an easy way to help prevent pain.

Continue Reading

Turning Resolutions into Successful Habits

The main purpose of a New Year’s resolution or self-improvement goal should be to seek progress, not perfection.

Continue Reading

Approach Spiritual Life with Intention

Our relationship with God takes time, energy, and work – just like other relationships.

Continue Reading

Learn to Manage Food, Not Avoid It

Learn to manage food, not avoid it.

Continue Reading

Maintaining Balance During the Holidays

The holidays can be challenging for priests, religious and parish staff who must minister to large crowds while maintaining a healthy emotional and spiritual life.

Continue Reading

Navigating the Stages of Transition

Priests, religious and lay leaders regularly encounter transitions that, while often expected and perhaps even desired, can nonetheless present challenges.

Continue Reading

Food and Exercise in Times of Change

Transition often interrupts our exercise and healthy eating routines, and it is important to be deliberate about making good choices during a time of change.

Continue Reading

Trauma: Extraordinary Challenges & Opportunities

Learn how to minister more effectively to those struggling with the lasting impact of trauma.

Continue Reading

Humor: Health for You & Your Ministry

Using humor as a leadership and communication tool can positively impact the health and stability of those around you.

Continue Reading

Women & Depression

Learn the signs and symptoms of depression that are unique to women women and offer appropriate support.

Continue Reading