Sacred Heart & Our Lady of Perpetual Help

Catholic Church in Ponsonby

Courses

The Sanctuary Course:

How can a church become a sanctuary—a place where individuals living with mental health challenges feel safe, supported, and a sense of belonging? The Sanctuary Course for Catholics was created to inspire and equip communities of faith that are asking this important question. Developed in consultation with mental health professionals, theologians, and people with lived experience, this eight-session study guide explores key mental health topics and examines meaningful ways to offer companionship, support recovery, and promote wellbeing.
Who is it for?

The Sanctuary Course for Catholics is a study guide for small groups, designed to raise awareness and start conversations in local churches regarding mental health. Your group might include:

  • People with questions about mental health
  • Mental health professionals with a wealth of knowledge to share
  • Leaders who want to engage their community in mental health conversations
  • People supporting loved ones with mental health problems
  • People living with mental health problems

 

We are offering this course as an in-person experience on the first Saturdays of the month for 8 sessions. The course will also be offered via Zoom during the week. Details are in the parish newsletter.

The next in-person meeting will be advertised in the newsletter.

 

 

 

St Joseph’s Retreat:

Our parish St Joseph’s Retreat is Saturday 17 September. There will be an evening option on Friday 16 September for those who can’t give up a full day for the Saturday retreat. All are welcome to attend the evening session. Fr John O’Connor of the National Liturgy Centre and Food for Faith (foodforfaith.org.nz) will help us to get to know and love the gentle St Joseph. Lunch provided. Koha/donation appreciated.

 

 

Sacramental Programme:

for baptised Children of Practising Catholic Families 2023

(dates are yet to be set)

For children who are BAPTISED and your family are PRACTICISING Catholics and aged 8yrs old at the time the programme starts. Please provide your child’s Baptism Certificate and commit to attending ALL classes and doing homework with your child.

Please note the sessions are held on Sundays at 3pm