Finding Peace and Healing: A Roman Catholic Perspective

Caveat: This article does not express the views of the practice of psychotherapy. The opinions expressed are entirely my own as a Roman Catholic. I write this article NOT as a psychotherapist but rather as a practicing Roman Catholic.

The Search for Inner Peace

As a therapist, I see many troubled individuals. Every age group struggles with unique stressors, yet there is common ground among them. Most people seek peace and healing.

In our busy world, filled with traffic jams, crowded places, and increasing uncertainty about the future, people often experience stress. Living with uncertainty can be painful and uncomfortable. Consequently, individuals look for answers to guide them. Many seek solutions through drugs or medications, which merely mask the issues without addressing their root causes.

The unrest in our hearts and our quest for peace and tranquility is a lifelong journey. Some people look to the past, reminiscing about a mythical golden age when everything felt secure. They mourn the present, feeling lost and overwhelmed. Others embrace the present's realities, throwing themselves into various activities. They often emerge battered and stressed, trying to multitask—speaking on the phone, writing a letter, checking emails, and watching their children play—all at once!

Understanding True Peace

Peace is an inner state that transcends both time and space. One can find peace anywhere and everywhere. Importantly, it is not dependent on external circumstances.

Consider the early Christian martyrs. What stands out about them is their remarkable peace, even in the face of torment. They willingly chose death over apostasy. Some might argue that life was so miserable for them that death seemed preferable. This viewpoint, however, does not fully explain their serenity. Torturers, used to screams and pleas for mercy, were astonished by these martyrs. Many onlookers, moved by the example of peace under suffering, converted to Christianity as a result.

The Link Between Peace and Security

Many individuals equate peace with security. They believe they will find peace only when they have a healthy bank balance, trustworthy friends, or when everything goes their way. Consequently, people strive to avoid challenges. If a marriage becomes difficult, some opt for divorce. If faced with an unwanted pregnancy, others may seek to "dispose of the problem." In this quest for peace, there can be only one victor: you.

When challenging situations arise, we often seek comfort within ourselves or through our activities. We may go on vacations or try to distract ourselves. Unfortunately, this pain often does not simply vanish. We end up nursing our wounds and harboring ill feelings toward those who have hurt us.

The Path to Healing

To find peace and experience true healing from our wounds, we cannot rely solely on our inner resources or thought patterns. Many believe that simply rephrasing or modifying their thoughts will lead to healing. This is akin to asking a man with a broken leg to change his thinking and run again; it is not a feasible solution.

Real healing and freedom from past hurts can only come from external sources. It lies beyond our thoughts, feelings, or friendships. As a practicing Roman Catholic, I can confidently say that true peace and healing come from a relationship with our Lord and through embracing the sacramental life of our Church.

Embracing Spiritual Practices

Are you feeling troubled? Spend some time in silent adoration. You may find the peace you seek in that stillness. Do you find yourself worrying? Consider praying the rosary!

If you require healing, reflect on any festering wounds or long-standing grudges. Take time to examine your conscience. Ask for the grace to forgive. Going to confession can be a transformative step. The Roman Catholic Church has a 2000-year history of cultivating peace and offers rich spiritual practices that lead to healing. All of these wisdom traditions recommend surrendering your will to God’s will.

When faced with certain death or torture, early martyrs sought unity with God. For them, death was not an obstacle but a gateway to another reality. Let us embrace our lives within the Kingdom of God.