

Hope Stories with Sr. Josephine Garrett, CSFN
OSV Podcasts
Hope Stories with Sr. Josephine Garrett, CSFN explores extraordinary stories of hope hidden within the ordinary lives we lead. Sr. Josephine loves the transformational power and gift of stories, and their ability to reveal deep truths about the purpose and meaning of our lives. As a Catholic Christian writer, speaker, and mental health counselor, Sr. Josephine helps people discover and abide within places and relationships where they can be received wholeheartedly as gift. Journey to a new depth of hope, even in seemingly impossible circumstances, with Sr. Josephine. Her new book, HOPE: An Invitation, is now available at osvcatholicbookstore.com.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Sep 2, 2024 • 52min
Designed for Relationship: Attachment Wounds with Rebecca Schall, LPC
In this episode of the Hope Stories podcast, Sister Josephine discusses the vital topic of attachment with Rebecca Schall, LPC, a licensed professional counselor from East Texas. Rebecca delves into the intricacies of attachment wounds—emotional injuries from unmet relational needs—and their impact on mental health and faith. She shares her personal journey of overcoming attachment wounds through God's relentless love and professional counseling. The discussion highlights the integration of clinical practices like EMDR with Christian anthropology to foster healing. Rebecca emphasizes the importance of understanding our attachment styles, seeking healthy relationships, encountering Christ in our wounds, and striving for holiness in community.Links: More about Rebecca SchallHow We Love QuizHow We Love BookWhat is attachment theory?Anxiety and Depression Association of AmericaPatron Saint for this Episode: Bl. Francisa de Paula de Jesus IsabelJourney to a new depth of hope, even in seemingly impossible circumstances, with Sr. Josephine in her new book HOPE: An Invitation. Available at osvcatholicbookstore.com. Discover more ways to live, learn, and love your Catholic faith at osvpodcasts.com. Sharing stories, starting conversations.Learn more about Sr. Josephine at: https://nazarethcsfn.org/https://www.instagram.com/sr_josephine/

Aug 19, 2024 • 33min
Hope and Healing: Depression and Advocacy with Chris Miller
In this episode, Chris Miller shares his personal journey battling depression and his extensive work in mental health education and advocacy. As a Silicon Valley resident, school teacher, and youth minister, Chris discusses the impact of depression on his life, the importance of hope, and the various coping mechanisms he's employed, including medication and therapy. Chris also discusses his involvement in legislative and pastoral efforts to improve mental health awareness and support. His story emphasizes the significance of a holistic and integrative approach to mental health, combining professional treatment with spiritual guidance.Links: St. Albert ChmielowskiVarious fact sheets on forms of depressionWhat is Depression?USCCB Mental Health CoalitionNFCYM Ministry Network for Pastoral Care and Mental HealthNational Catholic Partnership for DisabilityCalifornia Catholic Conference Statement on Mental HealthPastoral Response to Persons with Mental IllnessGaudium et spes, "On the Church in the Modern World" encyclicalPastoral Response to Persons with Mental IllnessSaints who confronted suicidal thoughtsNational Catholic Mental Health Campaign, USCCB Introductory StatementsNational Suicide Prevention Lifeline (USA): 1-800-273-TALK (8255) or text "HELLO" to 741741 https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org/Crisis Text Line (USA): Text "HELLO" to 741741 https://www.crisistextline.org/Journey to a new depth of hope, even in seemingly impossible circumstances, with Sr. Josephine in her new book HOPE: An Invitation. Available at osvcatholicbookstore.com. Discover more ways to live, learn, and love your Catholic faith at osvpodcasts.com. Sharing stories, starting conversations.Learn more about Sr. Josephine at: https://nazarethcsfn.org/https://www.instagram.com/sr_josephine/

Aug 5, 2024 • 55min
The Cross, Glory & Salvation: Adoption with Jess Echeverry
This episode discusses mature topics surrounding mental health and includes a mention of suicidal ideation. If you are in crisis, please call, the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 988, or text or chat with the Crisis Text Line by texting TALK to 741741.In this episode of 'Hope Stories,' the focus is on the complex and deeply spiritual reality of adoption. Guest Jess Echeverry shares her profound personal experiences with adoption, homelessness, and trauma. Through her testimony, Jess reveals the deep pain and eventual redemption found in her journey, emphasizing the importance of embracing both suffering and resurrection in the context of adoption. Additionally, Jess discusses mental health realities, including postpartum depression, identity struggles, and the need for developmental awareness in adoptive families. This episode is a compelling exploration of the intertwining of personal suffering, spiritual growth, and the redemptive love of Christ.This episode is placed into the care of St. Mbaaga Tuzinde, patron saint of victims of human trafficking abuse. St. Mbaaga Tuzinde, pray for us! Links: Saint Mbaaga Tuzinde Jess Echevery Website Jess Echevery's Non-Profit (Supporting Families and those Experiencing with Homelessness)Resources for Adoption from Psychology Today Anxiety and Depression Association of AmericaNational Catholic Mental Health Campaign, USCCB Introductory StatementsNational Suicide Prevention Lifeline (USA): 1-800-273-TALK (8255) or text "HELLO" to 741741 https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org/Crisis Text Line (USA): Text "HELLO" to 741741 https://www.crisistextline.org/Journey to a new depth of hope, even in seemingly impossible circumstances, with Sr. Josephine in her new book HOPE: An Invitation. Available at osvcatholicbookstore.com. Discover more ways to live, learn, and love your Catholic faith at osvpodcasts.com. Sharing stories, starting conversations.Learn more about Sr. Josephine at: https://nazarethcsfn.org/https://www.instagram.com/sr_josephine/

Jul 29, 2024 • 43min
Living in the Wound: Anxiety and Depression with Bishop James Conley
Bishop James Conley of Lincoln, Nebraska, shares a deeply personal account of his struggle with anxiety and depression, largely triggered by the clergy abuse scandal. Bishop Conley recounts how his overwhelming responsibilities and traumatic events led to a profound psychological crisis, resulting in a diagnosis of PTSD and major depressive disorder. Seeking healing, he took a leave of absence, during which he received medical, psychological, and spiritual support. Throughout his journey, key relationships played a vital role in his recovery. Bishop Conley's testimony emphasizes the importance of reaching out, the power of community and relationships, and finding hope through faith, even in the darkest times. Links: USCCB Resource Page on How to Report AbusePTSD: National Center for PTSDAnxiety and Depression Association of AmericaBlessed Rutilio Grande, SJThis episode references the Catholic Church clergy abuse scandal in general terms. Please listen with care. Journey to a new depth of hope, even in seemingly impossible circumstances, with Sr. Josephine in her new book HOPE: An Invitation. Available at osvcatholicbookstore.com. Discover more ways to live, learn, and love your Catholic faith at osvpodcasts.com. Sharing stories, starting conversations.Learn more about Sr. Josephine at: https://nazarethcsfn.org/https://www.instagram.com/sr_josephine/

Jul 15, 2024 • 45min
The Love that Heals: Trauma & PTSD with Hope Acquilano
Sister Josephine welcomes guest Hope Acquilano, a childhood sexual abuse survivor. Hope shares deeply moving testimony of trauma and healing, revealing her struggles with PTSD, flashbacks, and shame. She discusses the crucial role of trauma-informed therapy and EMDR in her recovery and God's presence in her journey. The episode emphasizes the importance of bringing trauma into the light for healing and to encourage survivors to seek help. This episode is placed into the care of St. Josephine Bakhita, patron saint of victims of human trafficking abuse. St. Josephine Bakhita, pray for us! Links: PTSD: National Center for PTSDWhat is EMDR therapy?St. Josephine Bakhita by Meg Hunter-KilmerGaudium et spes, "On the Church in the Modern World" encyclicalSaints who survived abuse“Painting the Faces of Holiness”: An Interview with Hope AcquilanoKitchen House Studio by Hope AcquilanoHope's Instagram CLICK HEREThis episode is sponsored by Sacred Heart Major SeminaryUNLEASHING THE POWER OF THE EARLY CHURCHStudy "Acts of the Apostles" with Dr. Mary Healy online at Sacred Heart Major Seminary. CLICK HEREJourney to a new depth of hope, even in seemingly impossible circumstances, with Sr. Josephine in her new book HOPE: An Invitation. Available at osvcatholicbookstore.com. Discover more ways to live, learn, and love your Catholic faith at osvpodcasts.com. Sharing stories, starting conversations.Learn more about Sr. Josephine at: https://nazarethcsfn.org/https://www.instagram.com/sr_josephine/

Jul 1, 2024 • 45min
God Is Working It Out: Bipolar Disorder with Christian Bentley
This episode discusses mature topics surrounding mental health and includes a mention of suicidal ideation. If you are in crisis, please call, the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 988, or text or chat with the Crisis Text Line by texting TALK to 741741. Sister Josephine welcomes her first guest of Season 2, Christian Bentley, to discuss his experience living with bipolar disorder. Christian shares his journey through the highs and lows of the illness, his struggles with suicidal thoughts, and the stigma surrounding mental health. He emphasizes the importance of self acceptance, faith, and the sacrament of confession in managing his condition. With personal anecdotes and profound wisdom, Christian offers hope and encouragement to others living with mental health challenges. July is National Minority Mental Health Awareness Month. To learn more, click here.Links: Christian Bentley's InstagramPastoral Response to Persons with Mental IllnessDepression and Bipolar Support Alliance (DBSA)Gaudium et spes, "On the Church in the Modern World" encyclicalPastoral Response to Persons with Mental IllnessFrom “Mean Girl” to Saint, the story of HyacinthaSaints who confronted suicidal thoughtsNational Catholic Mental Health Campaign, USCCB Introductory StatementsNational Suicide Prevention Lifeline (USA): 1-800-273-TALK (8255) or text "HELLO" to 741741 https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org/Crisis Text Line (USA): Text "HELLO" to 741741 https://www.crisistextline.org/This episode is sponsored by Catholic Charities USA. Help Catholic Charities serve your neighbors in need by joining us at www.WeAreThere.US. Journey to a new depth of hope, even in seemingly impossible circumstances, with Sr. Josephine in her new book HOPE: An Invitation. Available at osvcatholicbookstore.com. Discover more ways to live, learn, and love your Catholic faith at osvpodcasts.com. Sharing stories, starting conversations.Learn more about Sr. Josephine at: https://nazarethcsfn.org/https://www.instagram.com/sr_josephine/

Jun 17, 2024 • 17min
Season 2 Introduction: Mental Health as Gift
Sister Josephine Garrett, CSFN, welcomes listeners to season 2 of Hope Stories, which will explore both the challenges and hope found in a wide-ranging discussion on a variety of mental health topics and conditions. Sister Josephine shares her journey, the challenges faced, and the insights gained while intertwining her spiritual and professional experiences as a mental health counselor. The conclusion is that every part of one's self, including mental health struggles, can be offered as a gift to the Church, fostering hope, resilience, and even joy in the face of suffering.NOTES00:00 Introduction and Welcome02:16 Reflecting on Season One06:46 The Need for Mental Health Awareness09:22 Challenges in Mental Health Ministry14:02 Vision for the New Season14:59 Personal Reflections and ConclusionGaudium et spes, "On the Church in the Modern World" encyclicalNational Catholic Mental Health Campaign, USCCB Introductory StatementsJourney to a new depth of hope, even in seemingly impossible circumstances, with Sr. Josephine in her new book HOPE: An Invitation. Available at osvcatholicbookstore.com. Discover more ways to live, learn, and love your Catholic faith at osvpodcasts.com. Sharing stories, starting conversations.Learn more about Sr. Josephine at: https://nazarethcsfn.org/https://www.instagram.com/sr_josephine/

Feb 5, 2024 • 33min
Rooted in Jesus: Bringing Your Gifts, Awaiting the Kingdom with Archbishop Shelton Fabre
Bishop Shelton Fabre, Archbishop for the Archdiocese of Louisville and former chair of the USCCB Ad Hoc Committee Against Racism (2018 to 2023), sits down with Sr. Josephine for the last episode of Hope Stories season one. ResourcesArchdiocese of LouisvilleAd Hoc Committee Against Racism, United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB)Journey to a new depth of hope, even in seemingly impossible circumstances, with Sr. Josephine in her new book HOPE: An Invitation. Available at osvcatholicbookstore.com. Discover more ways to live, learn, and love your Catholic faith at osvpodcasts.com. Sharing stories, starting conversations.Learn more about Sr. Josephine at: https://nazarethcsfn.org/https://www.instagram.com/sr_josephine/

Jan 15, 2024 • 34min
Loved So Well, with the Garretts
Sr. Josephine Garrett is joined by her parents, Aunt Dee and Uncle Billy, for a moving discussion about loving well, praying through struggle, seeing blessings, and recognizing the awesome gift of God's mercies. NOTESWhat We Have Seen and Heard: A Pastoral Letter on Evangelization from the Black Bishops of the United StatesSr. Thea Bowman’s June 1989 Address to U.S. Catholic BishopsDemystifying Catholic Terms, with Sr. JosephineThis episode is sponsored by the U.S. bishops' 9 Days for Life NovenaJoin the U.S. bishops’ pro-life novena from January 16 through January 24www.9daysforlife.comJourney to a new depth of hope, even in seemingly impossible circumstances, with Sr. Josephine in her new book HOPE: An Invitation. Available at osvcatholicbookstore.com. Discover more ways to live, learn, and love your Catholic faith at osvpodcasts.com. Sharing stories, starting conversations.Learn more about Sr. Josephine at: https://nazarethcsfn.org/https://www.instagram.com/sr_josephine/

Dec 18, 2023 • 38min
Relationship and Renewal, with Chika Anyanwu
Sister Josephine is joined by her friend and fellow Catholic speaker Chika Anyanwu to talk about life as a missionary, staying authentic while preaching the Gospel, and how her Nigerian roots and immigrant perspective shapes her faith and role within the Church. Resources: Chika's websiteMy Encounter: How I Met Jesus in Prayer by Chika AnyanwuThis episode is sponsored by GIA PublicationsThe Fire This Time: A Black Catholic SourcebookPromo Code: HOPE10CLICK HEREJourney to a new depth of hope, even in seemingly impossible circumstances, with Sr. Josephine in her new book HOPE: An Invitation. Available at osvcatholicbookstore.com. Discover more ways to live, learn, and love your Catholic faith at osvpodcasts.com. Sharing stories, starting conversations.Learn more about Sr. Josephine at: https://nazarethcsfn.org/https://www.instagram.com/sr_josephine/