How To Face Challenges in Catholic Families

The St. Raymond Nonnatus Foundation for Freedom, Family, and Faith.

The St. Raymond Nonnatus Foundation is associated with the Mercedarian Religious. Headquartered in the Philadelphia area in the Overbrook section of Philadelphia, our foundation is all about supporting stronger marriages and families within our Catholic faith. Our board of directors consists of many gifted individuals who are in support of our mission. Colleen Brigid Fitzpatrick, MSW, LCSW is a licensed therapist who understands the needs of married couples, families and also their struggles. The foundation is happy to have Colleen as a valued member of our team, and we look forward to working more closely with her in our mission in the future, as well.

In her own words, here is Colleen's own advice to families regarding "challenges Catholic families face":

"In 2018, relationships are difficult. The modern culture has many distractions. This takes its toll on marriages and family interactions. Some of the concerns are: feelings of isolation, comparison to others and parent issues.

In order for a marriages to remain healthy, there are several steps that can be taken. First and foremost, communication must be clear. Each person needs to tell the others the emotions they are feeling, either positive or negative. Second, you must be empathetic towards each other. Our busy society can easily overwhelm and take a toll on marriage. Third, respect must be present at all times. Respect means to honor the other person, as well as their individual opinions.

In terms of growing closer in a Catholic marriage, there are many ways that you can achieve this goal. Some examples would be: joint prayers, volunteering together at the church or planning a trip to a shrine or other religious site.

Strengthening family life can be attained, with some work. A good reflection to attain this is the saying: 'The family that prays together stays together'. Plan a time every week when all family members gather, taking turns leading prayers.

Share a meal together once a week. Cook together and try new recipes.

Host a family “game" night. This creates fun and improves the ability to bond.

Create a family prayer garden. Together you can plan, dig and enjoy this special space.

Family traditions around the holidays are very important. Consider making a nativity scene together or utilizing an Advent calendar.

Above all, learn how to have fun with the entire family. Making memories can last a lifetime and get you through challenges."

Keep the St. Raymond Nonnatus Foundation in mind for Family Ministry

Colleen has given good advice to strengthen the family unit. Even though life can become busy, focusing on prayer, enjoying time together as a family and loving one another is most important. You can learn more about Colleen's private practice by going to her website at Instrumental Change. Her practice is located in Southeastern NJ. See her site for more details.

The St. Raymond Nonnatus Foundation for Freedom, Family and Faith cares about you and your families. We would love to help you in the ways we are able through the efforts of our Mercedarian friars.. Please go to our website to learn more about the foundation and our mission. We have done programs to help families affected by divorce and outreach to help families find accompaniment in challenging times.

The fourth vow of the Mercedarians is "the willingness to offer our lives for those in danger of losing their faith". Be sure to let us know your prayer intentions and stay in touch with us. Our mission is to bring stronger faith, hope and love to families through the charisms of the Order. Reach us at Nonnatus.org or email director.srnf@gmail.com. We are happy to help and to listen.