Faith and Fellowship is an outreach program to bring the
message of Jesus to the mentally ill. It was developed by Connie
Rakitan for use in the Chicago area. It was brought to the Saginaw
Diocese by Father Bob Malloy, Anita Putalik Winger, and Dennis Suchyta.
The program start with about 30 minutes to get the partners calmed down
and ready to teach the main topic for that meeting. We then shift to
the Sacred Room where we develop and teach on that meeting's topic,
such as Seeking Wisdom. With the use of props, we introduce the topic
as a Life Experience. After discussion, we shift to Faith Experience.
An appropriate Biblical text is then read to develop the spiritual
message. This is then discussed to broaden the concept for the partners.
The next step is personal prayers by anyone for whatever they feel needs
GOD'S attention. When this is completed, the whole group recites the
LORD'S prayer. Then we sing a loud AMEN. A Blessing is then given
to each member. This is followed by a suitable hymn. There is a closing
song or prayer.
We then move to the AGAPE room for refreshments or a meal. After that
is done we clean up the area and restore it back to its origional order.
We close the session by singing Sholem and the partners either depart
or help with washing and storing the dishes.
This program has been effectively used since 1990.