Popular author and speaker Maureen Pratt will lead a one day conference called Hope in the Darkness: Chronic Pain and Illness Transformed by Spirituality at Steinbach Mennonite Church, 345 Loewen Blvd, Steinbach, Manitoba on May 26, 2009.
Hosted by the Bethesda Chaplaincy Services Board, this educational & inspirational conference is open to Health Care Providers, the Mental Health Community, Spiritual Caregivers (clergy and chaplains), and most importantly individuals suffering with chronic pain and illness, and their family and friends. Health care providers are encouraged to attend the conference which is accredited for Continuing Medical Education. Certificates will be available upon check-in. The conference has also been endorsed by Providence College and Seminary, South Eastman Health, Steinbach Ministerial Association, and the University of Manitoba, Faculty of Medicine.
Keynote speaker and workshop leader Maureen Pratt is an award-winning author of three books including Peace in the Storm: Meditations on Chronic Pain and Illness, Taking Charge of Lupus: How to Manage the Disease and Make the Most of Your Life, and The First year – Hypothyroidism: An Essential Guide for the Newly Diagnosed.
Maureen’s Christian faith has nurtured her through the storms of her own pain, as she lives daily with multiple chronic illnesses. Her personal, practical and prayerful approach brings hope and inspiration to others who similarly suffer. Maureen provides helpful information and deep insights to physicians, counselors, spiritual care givers, friends and family who choose to journey with those suffering with chronic illness. Maureen has spoken to such groups as the Center for Health and Healing; the American Association of Christian Counselors; The Association of Professional Chaplains; the Crystal Cathedral’s Annual Conference on Care and Kindness, the Lupus Foundation of America and many others.
Larry Hirst, Chaplain of Bethesda Hospital and one of the conference organizers, identifies why Maureen has been invited as the featured presenter. “Many times when “experts” are brought in to speak on subjects, they are qualified academically to address the subject, but many times they lack the personal experience to give their expertise intimate authority. Maureen comes to us knowing chronic pain and illness not primarily from an academic perspective but from a lived perspective. Despite the fact that her conditions persist and all the consequences of her particular chronic illnesses persist, Maureen stands not as a victim of these diseases but as an agent of understanding, of grace and of comfort and encouragement to those who likewise suffer.”
David Dickey, Pastor of Adult Ministries at Emmanuel Evangelical Free Church, says “We hope Maureen’s spirited presence and presentations will enhance the community support received by those living with chronic pain and illness – support from both professionals & from friends and family. And we pray Maureen’s perspective will enable fellow-sufferers to press through to live meaning-filled lives amidst their daily limitations.”
