Nurturing Hope is a CSCO initiative providing chaplains with practical tools and frameworks for supporting students' mental and spiritual wellbeing within the Catholic pastoral care model.
About This Resource
Chaplains in Ontario Catholic schools increasingly find themselves walking alongside students who are struggling with anxiety, depression, grief, identity questions, and crisis. Nurturing Hope was developed collaboratively with chaplains, counsellors, and Catholic mental health professionals to help chaplains navigate this ministry with confidence and care.
Key Topics Covered
- The chaplain's distinct pastoral role vs. the school counsellor's therapeutic role
- Active listening and trauma-informed pastoral conversations
- Recognizing signs of crisis and making appropriate referrals
- Integrating prayer and sacramental life into pastoral support
- Supporting students grieving loss — of a person, a relationship, or a sense of identity
- Self-care and vicarious trauma for chaplains
Key Scripture and Church Teaching
The resource draws on Laudato Si', the Catechism, and the writings of Pope Francis — especially Amoris Laetitia — to provide a theological grounding for pastoral care in the contemporary school context.
How to Use This Resource
The Nurturing Hope guide is designed for individual chaplain reflection, small group discussion at regional CSCO gatherings, and as a framework for school board professional development days. It is available in both English and French.