Heart Speaks to Heart

Dear CMA Members and Friends,

I hope this message finds you well and filled with the grace of our Lord. In this month of June, a time when the Catholic Church celebrates the Feast of the Sacred Heart, I want to draw your attention to a profoundly moving pastoral letter written by Bishop James D. Conley, our esteemed Episcopal Advisor. His letter, “A Future with Hope,” is not just an account of his personal journey through mental health challenges, but a heartfelt message that resonates deeply with our own experiences and struggles.

In his letter, our advisor candidly shares his story of grappling with mental health issues, including PTSD, major depression, and anxiety. He describes how he descended into darkness, overwhelmed by the pressures and responsibilities of his episcopal duties, only to find a path back to joy and a deeper love for our Lord. His journey, marked by humility and reliance on God, offers practical advice and a Catholic perspective on mental health that can inspire and guide us all.

Bishop Conley’s episcopal motto, “Cor ad cor loquitur” – “heart speaks to heart” – takes on special significance in this context. His message is a profound communication from his heart to ours, reminding us that in our shared humanity and vulnerability, the Sacred Heart of Jesus is present to each of us. His experiences and insights serve as a beacon of hope, encouraging us to seek wholeness and holiness through our faith, community, and the sacraments.

I urge you to take the time to read “A Future with Hope.” The letter is a testament to the power of faith and the importance of mental health. It reassures us that we are not alone in our struggles, and that Jesus yearns to walk with us, offering a peace and hope that the world cannot provide.

CMA is so blessed to have Bishop Conley as our Episcopal Advisor! His spiritual leadership, service, and passion for the mission and members of CMA is inspiring! He is a light for us and the world. Let this message from Bishop Conley be a source of comfort and encouragement, a reminder that through the Sacred Heart, we are all connected and supported. As we honor the Sacred Heart this June, may we also embrace the journey toward mental and spiritual well-being, knowing that our hearts are united in Christ’s love.

In Christ the Divine Physician,

Michelle K. Stanford, M.D.

President

The post Heart Speaks to Heart appeared first on Catholic Medical Association.

Categorised in: Uncategorized