Key Takeaways:

• The importance of creating a safe and supportive network by sharing vulnerabilities and authentic experiences within a community.
• How raw and unedited podcasts foster genuine connections and provide relatable content that resonates with a broad audience.
• Imposter syndrome is a universal experience, and embracing it can lead to greater personal accountability and growth.
• The critical role of empathy and authenticity in fostering mental health dialogues that resonate on a personal and community level.
• Leveraging insights and feedback from the audience to inform future conversations and improve the services offered by platforms like Hill Sanctuary House.

Notable Quotes:

• "You bring so much wealth of experience and knowledge and… your life experience and how you've navigated being a dad, husband, grandfather." - Debbie Draybi
• "We don't need to know what we're doing. We're just putting ourselves out there… our intention is to help make a difference." - Natalie Moujalli
• "People just want to hear who you are. Naturally." - Eddie Reaiche
• "These counselors, these people, these hosts behind the mic, really, really, really care for the community." - Derrick Yeoh

For more information on the Hills Sanctuary House visit our website https://hshl.org.au/
You and your mental health is important to us.
Please visit https://hshl.org.au/wp/help-resources/ for help and resources

Do subscribe to this podcast to get the latest episodes of Finding Sanctuary.

Follow us on
Facebook - Christ the Redeemer Maronite Catholic Parish of The Hills
Instagram - @hills_sanctuary_house
Blog - https://hshl.org.au/blog/

Eddie Reaiche sits down with Monsignor Shora and Honi Lattouf to explore the life-changing impact of the Alpha program. Rhey dive into how this eleven-week course has become a guiding light for those seeking faith development, a sense of belonging, and clarity amid life’s challenges.

Alpha creates space for honest conversations, offering a path to personal growth and spiritual renewal—especially for people feeling lost, disconnected, or unsure of where they stand with God. For many, Alpha is more than a course—it’s a life reset, helping individuals rediscover purpose and build stronger relationships within their church and wider community.

Monsignor Shora and Honi reflect on Alpha’s growing success—describing it as a vital tool in reviving spiritual curiosity, encouraging re-engagement with faith, and strengthening parish communities. Whether someone is just curious about Christianity or looking to reconnect after years away from church, Alpha offers a gentle but powerful invitation: come as you are.

Key Takeaways:

• Belonging and Faith Exploration: The Alpha course offers a welcoming environment, encouraging people to explore spirituality and their personal faith journey.
• Holistic Personal Growth: Participants discover a newfound sense of purpose, better mental health outcomes, and enriched interpersonal relationships.
• Inclusive Community Building: Alpha brings together people of various ages and backgrounds, fostering inclusive and supportive community bonds.
• Practical Leadership Experience: Graduates of the course often become facilitators, demonstrating commitment to spreading the program's teachings and helping others grow.
• Comprehensive Support System: Providing an alternative support network, Alpha aids those struggling with challenges such as addiction, grief, and isolation.

Notable Quotes:

• Monsignor Shora: "Alpha is a great way for them…to have another support community…that replaces the group that was dragging them away from a better lifestyle."
• Honi Lattouf: "I've personally seen people become on fire and have a hunger for wanting to know more about faith."
• Eddie Reaiche: "There was that sense of belonging that actually gave them a purpose to explore their faith even further."
• Monsignor Shora: "It's given people a chance to go back, what would it have been like to first experience Jesus and the Christian message?"
• Honi Lattouf: "First you belong…then you learn about what to believe."

For more information on the Hills Sanctuary House visit our website https://hshl.org.au/
You and your mental health is important to us.
Please visit https://hshl.org.au/wp/help-resources/ for help and resources

Do subscribe to this podcast to get the latest episodes of Finding Sanctuary.

Follow us on
Facebook - Christ the Redeemer Maronite Catholic Parish of The Hills
Instagram - @hills_sanctuary_house
Blog - https://hshl.org.au/blog/

Episode Summary:

In this episode of Finding Sanctuary, we sit down with Melissa D’Cruz—a powerhouse florist and wedding planner whose story is as inspiring as the blooms she works with. From dreaming of being a psychologist to becoming a trusted presence at some of life’s most emotional moments, Melissa opens up about how deep personal loss and grief reshaped her path and fuelled her passion for bringing comfort through creativity

Melissa shares how, as a single mum facing tough legal battles, she leaned on her faith and her village to not just survive, but thrive. Her journey is one of grit, grace, and giving back—whether it’s helping clients celebrate love or honour loss, or dreaming big about supporting single parents and those doing it tough.

If you’ve ever wondered how empathy and purpose can transform a business—or how beauty and pain can live side by side—this heartfelt chat will stay with you long after the final bloom fades.

Key Takeaways:

• Melissa D’Cruz’s journey highlights the power of combining personal passion with professional purpose to lead a meaningful and impactful life.
• Personal hardship and loss can open the door to deep professional fulfilment when met with empathy and a community-focused mindset.
• Finding purpose at work isn’t always about direct outcomes; creating a positive space for colleagues can also build strong, meaningful connections.
• Embracing faith and community support plays a vital role in navigating personal adversity and building resilience.
• Reflecting on personal trials can inspire new initiatives to support others facing similar challenges.

Notable Quotes:

“Everything you do and everyone you work for, do it as if you are serving God.” – Melissa D’Cruz

“You don’t know what battle people are fighting in life. Be kind.” – Melissa D’Cruz

“It’s amazing how God actually made that happen for me and used me in a way I never thought he would use me in.” – Melissa D’Cruz

“You could be dealing with somebody who’s going through tragedy and trauma.” – Melissa D’Cruz

“From being in the valley, you get up to a mountain, and it’s not short; it’s a long journey.” – Melissa D’Cruz

For more information on the Hills Sanctuary House visit our website https://hshl.org.au/
You and your mental health is important to us.
Please visit https://hshl.org.au/wp/help-resources/ for help and resources

Do subscribe to this podcast to get the latest episodes of Finding Sanctuary.

Follow us on
Facebook - Christ the Redeemer Maronite Catholic Parish of The Hills
Instagram - @hills_sanctuary_house
Blog - https://hshl.org.au/blog/

Key Takeaways:

• The critical role of securing a sense of belonging and acceptance in shaping one’s identity and choices.
• How Andrew’s journey illustrates the deep links between trauma, addiction, and the search for masculine identity.
• The importance of seeking spiritual guidance and community support in overcoming personal challenges.
• The concept of “I am” and its influence on personal identity and behavior as demonstrated through Andrew’s transformation.
• A message of hope: It is possible to reinvent oneself and align with a healthier and fulfilling path, even after hitting rock bottom.

Notable Quotes:

• "I felt safer in a gang than I did at home, which is disordered when you look back at it."
• "Addictions are a trauma response to our sorrowful mysteries."
• "The identity then forms our habits, and then those habits reinforce the identity."
• "I had this desire to seek, to go on a quest to answer this question [about the meaning of life]."
• "If I go out and do xyz, I feel guilty about it. And that's a good thing because then I'm drawn to come back to try to stop that habit."

For more information on the Hills Sanctuary House visit our website https://hshl.org.au/
You and your mental health is important to us.
Please visit https://hshl.org.au/wp/help-resources/ for help and resources

Do subscribe to this podcast to get the latest episodes of Finding Sanctuary.

Follow us on
Facebook - Christ the Redeemer Maronite Catholic Parish of The Hills
Instagram - @hills_sanctuary_house
Blog - https://hshl.org.au/blog/

About the Guest:

Dr. Peter Holmes is a senior lecturer in theology at the University of Notre Dame. Recently Dr. Holmes published a book titled “Redeeming Masculinity,” which delves into understanding masculine identity from a theological perspective. To add to his list of credentials, he is now completing studies in counselling/ psychology.

Key Takeaways:

• The Evolution of Masculinity: Peter discusses how his personal and academic journeys shaped his understanding of masculinity, emphasising the shift from traditional markers of success to relational impact.
• Redefining Male Identity: Masculinity should be seen as a relationship-focused identity that prioritises giving and nurturing, contrary to societal pressures that encourage competition and self-centredness.
• Cultural Influences: There’s no single way to be a man; various cultures have their interpretations of masculinity. Understanding and extracting positives from cultural identities can lead to healthier self-perceptions.
• Importance of Communication: Effective communication in relationships can prevent common misunderstandings and strengthen bonds, especially if approached with a mindset of mutual respect and supporting growth.
• Seeking Support: Building a support network through mentorship and counselling can be crucial for personal development and redefining masculinity away from harmful stereotypes.

Notable Quotes:

“I am supposed to be strong… all of that strength is to help people, not to push myself up, to elevate, to push other people down.” – Dr Peter Holmes

“Real masculinity is self-giving and puts itself out there for the other.” – Dr Peter Holmes

“It’s never about the dishes.” – Eddie Reaiche

“You are amazing. You’re special. And you have something for the world.” – Dr Peter Holmes

“A strong man walks away. A weak man, who’s insecure in himself, has to fight more because he’s so insecure.” – Dr Peter Holmes

For more information on the Hills Sanctuary House visit our website https://hshl.org.au/
You and your mental health is important to us.
Please visit https://hshl.org.au/wp/help-resources/ for help and resources

Do subscribe to this podcast to get the latest episodes of Finding Sanctuary.

Follow us on
Facebook - Christ the Redeemer Maronite Catholic Parish of The Hills
Instagram - @hills_sanctuary_house
Blog - https://hshl.org.au/blog/

Key Takeaways:

• The Power of Faith: Pamela Chedid emphasizes how her faith in Christ helped her carry the burden of grief after the loss of her child.
• Writing as Therapy: Through writing, Pamela found solace and a means to process her emotions, leading to the creation of her poetry book.
• Honor and Memory: Remembering and honoring lost loved ones through personal rituals and sharing stories aid in the healing journey.
• Support Networks: A strong, caring network of family, friends, and professionals is crucial during times of loss and grief.
• Grief is Personal and Complex: Pamela shares her experience of handling grief as an ongoing process, not confined to a specific timeline or method.

Notable Quotes:

1. "Everybody experiences something in their life that profoundly changes them. And for me, it was the stillbirth."
2. "I actually wanted to write her a poem when I first started reading my poetry. And believe it or not, it was one of the last ones I wrote."
3. "It was the most terrible day ever, but I got through it. Everybody who saw me after, even in the days after and the day of the funeral, commented on how calm I seemed. I mean, of course I was crying and I was heartbroken, deeply heartbroken."
4. "The one thing that I would advise them to do is to mention their name, remember the name of the child, and don't brush it under the carpet. Don't try and, you know, push it away. We actually want to talk about it."
5. "If you have a friend who has had any kind of pregnancy loss, even if they didn't have a stillborn and they had a miscarriage, remember that. Honor that. Because it's just food for the soul really when you, when you receive a message like that, you think, oh, you know, her memory lives on."

For more information on the Hills Sanctuary House visit our website https://hshl.org.au/
You and your mental health is important to us.
Please visit https://hshl.org.au/wp/help-resources/ for help and resources

Do subscribe to this podcast to get the latest episodes of Finding Sanctuary.

Follow us on
Facebook - Christ the Redeemer Maronite Catholic Parish of The Hills
Instagram - @hills_sanctuary_house
Blog - https://hshl.org.au/blog/

The content of this podcast is intended for general information purposes only and does not take into account individual circumstances. It is not a substitute for personal medical or therapeutic advice. Please consult your GP, therapist, or another qualified health professional for guidance tailored to your specific needs.

Key Takeaways:

• Holistic Approach to Mental Health: Combining medication with therapy and spiritual practices offers the most effective path to mental well-being.
• Stigma in Faith-Based Communities: Addressing mental health in religious contexts often involves tackling stigma and misconceptions, emphasising that seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness.
• Pharmaceutical Insight: Antidepressants can serve as an essential tool, not a lifelong crutch; they enable patients to engage more effectively in therapy and ultimately aim towards gradual reduction in dosage.
• Balance and Risk Management: Therapy and medication should be seen as a dynamic balance; potential side effects require careful management in consultation with healthcare professionals.
• Importance of Community Support: Having a supportive network or "buddy" system can be instrumental during challenging periods of mental health treatment.

Notable Quotes:

1. "It's like breaking your leg and being put in a cast. The medication comes in to help lift your moods, so that therapy can start working." — Jony Raad
2. "Suffering in silence is a sign of strength in some eyes, but having a voice and sharing is the real strength." — Debbie Draybi
3. "Whether it’s religion or a belief in a greater power, it helps people through tougher times, especially with addiction." — Eddie Reaiche
4. "There’s more to healing than just medication—it’s about combining mind, body, and soul approaches." — Jony Raad
5. "Your mental health matters to us, and seeking out help is not a weakness." — Debbie Draybi

For more information on the Hills Sanctuary House visit our website https://hshl.org.au/
You and your mental health is important to us.
Please visit https://hshl.org.au/wp/help-resources/ for help and resources

Do subscribe to this podcast to get the latest episodes of Finding Sanctuary.

Follow us on
Facebook - Christ the Redeemer Maronite Catholic Parish of The Hills
Instagram - @hills_sanctuary_house
Blog - https://hshl.org.au/blog/

About the Guest:

Berta Azzi is a distinguished holistic health coach and nutritionist with a rich history in the wellness industry. Over her expansive career, Berta has transformed her personal health journey into a professional mission to empower others. With expertise in holistic approaches to wellness, she emphasizes the integration of mind, body, and soul in achieving optimal health. Berta is also a Pilates instructor and has an extensive background in counseling. She is the founder of Bellator Wellbeing, a platform dedicated to nurturing individual health through personalized holistic strategies.

Key Takeaways:

• Holistic health considers the mind, body, and spirit as a cohesive unit and focuses on individual-led strategies for health improvement.
• Small, mindful lifestyle changes can have significant impacts on overall health, challenging the notion that complex problems need complex solutions.
• Listening to one's innate wisdom is key in recognizing what truly benefits one's health, rather than blindly following generalized health trends.
• A safe space and the support of a health coach offer invaluable insight into personal health narratives and encourage sustainable lifestyle adjustments.
• Taking time for self-care, rest, and reflection counterbalances the culturally ingrained glorification of busyness, enhancing both physical and mental well-being.

Notable Quotes:

• "Health and wellbeing go beyond just a diet; it goes on to look at you as a whole person." - Berta Azzi
• "Our body is made up of systems that rely on each other... when one system is off, it affects the others." - Berta Azzi
• "You are the expert in you; you know what's wrong; you know what the solutions are." - Berta Azzi
• "Even complex health issues can be addressed with simple changes and choices." - Debbie Draybi
• "Don't compare yourself to other people... be in touch with yourself." - Berta Azzi

Resources:

• Berta Azzi's Website: Bellator Wellbeing

For more information on the Hills Sanctuary House visit our website https://hshl.org.au/
You and your mental health is important to us.
Please visit https://hshl.org.au/wp/help-resources/ for help and resources

Do subscribe to this podcast to get the latest episodes of Finding Sanctuary.

Follow us on
Facebook - Christ the Redeemer Maronite Catholic Parish of The Hills
Instagram - @hills_sanctuary_house
Blog - https://hshl.org.au/blog/

Resources:

• George John Photography on Instagram
• Dodie Jay Hair on Instagram

About the Guests:

Dodie Jay: Dodie Jay is a renowned hairstylist in the wedding industry, known for her authentic and candid approach to her craft. With a commitment to building her clients' self-esteem, Dodie has crafted a career that balances personal passion and professional excellence. Her journey has been marked by resilience, having triumphed over personal health challenges, and she now shares her expertise with a curated list of clients and a dedicated team.

George John: George John is a highly respected photographer who specializes in capturing weddings and other significant life moments. Known for his ability to blend authenticity with artistry, George has built a successful career by prioritizing client relationships and creating beautiful, timeless images. His approach is deeply rooted in understanding the unique expectations of each wedding couple, ensuring their special day is beautifully preserved in photographs.

Key Takeaways:

• The role of community and support networks is crucial in managing mental health within high-pressure industries like weddings.
• Personal challenges can lead to profound personal and professional growth, as exemplified by Dodie's experience overcoming cancer.
• Maintaining authenticity in client interactions fosters trust and long-term success in the service industry.
• Balancing personal boundaries helps manage the intense demands of creative professions.
• Building a positive team culture and treating colleagues well can significantly enhance professional satisfaction and client outcomes.

Notable Quotes:

• "As individuals, we definitely have roles that require pressure... I wouldn't be able to do that without the support system that I have."
• "Recovering from cancer was harder than having cancer."
• "It's pressure that seems like a lot from the outside, but we are fortunate enough to be distracted by everything else."
• "I think communication and education are two really important things with any service based transaction."
• "My biggest blessing is that truly, it doesn't feel like I'm working."

For more information on the Hills Sanctuary House visit our website https://hshl.org.au/
You and your mental health is important to us.
Please visit https://hshl.org.au/wp/help-resources/ for help and resources

Do subscribe to this podcast to get the latest episodes of Finding Sanctuary.

Follow us on
Facebook - Christ the Redeemer Maronite Catholic Parish of The Hills
Instagram - @hills_sanctuary_house
Blog - https://hshl.org.au/blog/

About the Guest:

 Jade El-Choueifati is a seasoned Master of Ceremonies who has emceed numerous prominent events throughout Sydney. He is well known for his event management and charisma and specialises in coordinating weddings and celebrations within the Maronite community. His focus on fostering community spirit and emphasising the deeper significance of matrimonial celebrations highlights his dedication to creating memorable and heartfelt experiences. Besides his professional achievements, Jade is deeply rooted in his faith, considering his work a vocation. 

Key Takeaways:

• The Importance of Community: Milestone celebrations like weddings and baptisms offer a unique opportunity for family and friends to come together, enhancing community bonds and contributing to individual happiness.
• Managing Expectations: Navigating the pressures of social media and external opinions is essential in maintaining joy and authenticity during significant events.
• Preparation Beyond the Day: Emphasising the significance of spiritual and emotional preparation over material concerns can establish a more resilient foundation for marriage.
• Dealing with Family Dynamics: Understanding and respecting family roles and expectations while focusing on mutual growth as a couple is crucial in managing the complexities of marital unions.

Notable Quotes:

1. "The grandeur of celebration isn't in the event itself, but in what it represents." - Jade El-Choueifati
2. "Witnessing the joy and community of milestones can be a truly uplifting experience." - Monsignor Shora
3. "I try and make sure that I'm the one that's always at a good level of being relaxed." - Jade El-Choueifati
4. "Sometimes parents need time to let go; recognising this helps build a harmonious future." - Monsignor Shora

For more information on the Hills Sanctuary House visit our website https://hshl.org.au/
You and your mental health is important to us.
Please visit https://hshl.org.au/wp/help-resources/ for help and resources

Do subscribe to this podcast to get the latest episodes of Finding Sanctuary.

Follow us on
Facebook - Christ the Redeemer Maronite Catholic Parish of The Hills
Instagram - @hills_sanctuary_house
Blog - https://hshl.org.au/blog/