December 2024 Newsletter
Although it’s a less common tradition these days, I am still someone who writes Christmas cards and loves to receive them. Let’s hope that the postal strike ends soon and that the mail flows in time for Christmas greetings!
Cards that speak to the message of peace are especially significant now, as my news feeds show little evidence of the possibility of peace. Reflecting on how peace is possible led me to a song, to the important work of our CCO therapists and to scripture.
The song that came to mind is the children’s anthem “Let there be Peace on Earth,” written in 1955 by Jill Jackson, who wrote the words following a breakthrough from years of depression. The song writer begins her piece with,
“Let there be peace on earth
and let it begin with me.
Let there be peace on Earth,
the peace that was meant to be…
The work of our CCO Therapists often touches the lives of people and families that are struggling to find peace. Lives are complicated and sometimes hurts are profound making peace seemingly unattainable. But our therapists believe that finding some measure of peace is possible through therapy be it through acceptance, grief work, and/or prayer.
Our Psychotherapists help our clients find agency towards peace, the “let is begin with me” by identifying emotions, thoughts and actions that support fostering personal peace through active measures and God’s grace.
By modelling and teaching healthy communication our therapists help clients experience peace and come to realize that this fosters more peaceful engagement with others. For example, when we listen attentively without interruption, seek to understand the other person’s perspective and use “I” statements we express how we feel without blaming, which soothes difficult emotions and cultivates relationship central to our sense of peace.
Furthermore, our therapists create a safe environment, in person or online, where discussions are respectful, and clients find their voice knowing their perspective is heard and valued. Validating a person’s feelings can ease tension which promotes peace. Therapy can also include restorative practices where conflict is brought to light, accountability is encouraged and pathways to meaningful repair to harm is imagined and set into goals. All these measures are part of the therapist’s practice which nourish relationships and foster lasting personal peace.
Scripture also serves to strengthen our mission at CCO and give courage to our psychotherapists as they support clients to cultivate peace in their lives. Scripture that emphasizes that peace comes from God offers a balm for today’s challenges:
“Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.” John 14:27 (NIV)
Whereas scripture that describes serving in the ministry of peacemaking is exceptionally important and blessed by God.
“Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.” Matthew 5:9 (NIV)
Thank you to our Therapists, Staff and Clients for all your work to foster peace in people’s lives, families, and community. Thank you, God Creator for your Devine intervention, and sending us a Saviour, the Prince of Peace!
“For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.” Isaiah 9:6 (NIV)
Merry Christmas, Peace, and Goodwill to all!
Carmen Hust RN, PhD, Chair of the CCO Board.
Family Feud Night – A Fun-Filled Success!
On Saturday, November 16, over 40 people gathered to compete in an action-packed evening.
Tables of families and friends worked together to come up with the top answers to the questions posed by our amazing MC – Matt McKendry. It was an event suited for all ages with everyone participating and even some one-on-one competitions to gain extra points. There was a spontaneous auction for a dozen warm donuts, and another for much sought after Dilly Bars. And our generous supporters donated baked goods for our silent auction.
The Furlan Family & Friends were our table champions who went home with gift certificates for dinner out. But the ultimate winners were our clients who will benefit from the $3000 raised that night!
Thank you to Cedarview Alliance Church for the use of their facilities; to Matt McKendry for all his work on getting the event going; to Evelyn, Karen, Becca, Chelsea, Matt, and Kerri for your yummy auction items; to three generous donors sponsoring the event; to Allie Liko Photography for a door prize and to all who attended to make this a great event. Stay tuned for next year – plan now to gather your family and friends – you don’t want to miss it!
What is Giving Tuesday? A day amidst the holiday shopping, where we can give to causes that are making a difference in our world.
Is CCO making a difference? YES!!
So far this year our team has assisted over 300 people in almost 2000 sessions. Through listening to their stories and helping to find a way through the challenges, individual lives have been changed. And, when a person gets stronger, relationships mend and the community around them improves.
We have a generous donor who will match the first $500 given to our Giving Tuesday campaign. Help us achieve our goal of $2000 and be a part of making a difference in your community.
Help bring peace to those facing life’s challenges by donating today!
Do you have time and energy that you want to give to help our ministry?
We are looking for Board Members, Prayer Partners, and more!
Check out our Volunteer Opportunities HERE
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