Recovery Tools

Opus Bono Sacerdotii recommends the following tools for recovery, but also for the prevention and safeguarding of one's own human nature prone to sin.

INSTITUTE FOR MARITAL HEALING: RESOURCES FOR CLERGY

Many ongoing educational programs for priests in a number of dioceses and religious communities. Three DVDs are available for priests from 2004 clergy conferences on priestly ministry to parishoners with the most prevalent emotional conflicts of anxiety and mistrust, sadness/loneliness, anger and confidence weaknesses. An article on the identification and resolution of loneliness in priestly life has been helpful to many priests in their ministry. (article in Adobe PDF format). In addition, they provide an intensive 4 day per week outpatient treatment program for priests with serious emotional conflicts. Also, a thorough two day outpatient evaluation of the emotional and mental health of priests, religious and seminarians is available.

COVENANT EYES

When people of all ages are on the Internet, there is very little accountability in regards to knowing where, when and how long they have been on the Internet. While filters can provide some help, they can also block acceptable web sites, creating frustration. Filters can also be turned off or bypassed, rendering them ineffective. The Covenant Eyes Program removes the secrecy and privacy of using the Internet. Covenant Eyes promotes self-control and personal discipline, and the individual is held accountable in their Internet use. It is self-evident that we all fall to temptations, especially when they are available in secret, unaccountable settings. Why do pastors and other counselors have windows on their office/counseling doors? Why do parents want to know the whereabouts of their children? The answer is that these measures of accountability deter us from falling to temptations. It is not just for people who have had a problem with addictions in the past. It is for anyone who sees the need for accountability measures NOW to prevent FUTURE temptations.

PRIESTS WITH COURAGE

PWC is for Roman Catholic priests, seminarians, deacons, and religious brothers; however, anyone is welcome to utilize this site. PWC helps to further the Church's teachings on homosexuality and to minister to those who struggle with same sex attraction. Membership allows for priests, seminarians, deacons, and brothers to enter into a spiritual fraternity and fellowship with others, to share in the spiritual benefits of Masses offered by priests in PWC and Courage, and to share information and resources with one another. PWC has been endorsed by the Pontifical Council for the Family.

CATHOLICTHERAPISTS.COM

Many qualified Catholic mental health professionals help priests in this country. To find a Catholic therapist in your area who integrate the truths of the Catholic faith into their practice we highly recommend visiting www.catholictherapists.com.