As we respond to COVID-19 as a ministry, committed to our mission to be the compassionate presence of Jesus to one another, we remember that Jesus called for and demonstrated love of neighbor. Jesus’s care for others attended to the needs of each unique individual, including those that others would exclude. Jesus embodies God’s hope for the world. Hope is a virtue that allows us to live in anticipation of happiness in union with God and the realization of God’s reign of love. One way to care for others is to foster hope. This activity invites one to foster hope as a team member.
Extending the compassionate caring of Jesus calls for hope.
“Hope is not Polyannaish optimism—the assumption that a positive outcome is inevitable.” Everett Worthington, “How Hope Can Keep You Happier and Healthier”
“Hope is the virtue of a heart that doesn’t lock itself into darkness, that doesn’t dwell on the past, does not simply get by in the present, but is able to see a tomorrow. Hope is the door that opens onto the future…A single individual is enough for hope to exist, and that individual can be you.” Pope Francis, “Why the Only Future Worth Building Includes Everyone”
“The ultimate goal of our care is to give to those who are ill, through our care, a reason to hope.” Cardinal Joseph Bernardin, A Sign of Hope
The Catholic Health Association invites reflection on hope:
Practices to Deepen and Express Hope
Research in “How Healthcare Professionals Contribute to Hope in Patients with Cancer” highlights practices that foster hope:
Being present to others
Taking time to talk with others
Being helpful
Being thoughtful
Being warm and genuine
Being friendly and polite
Responding positively with compassion, honesty and respect
Choose one of these practices that you would like to engage in more.
Increase your practice of this behavior with your team at least once each week.