Coming in 2026

ACT in Faith: Cooperating with Grace One Moment at at Time

Preface: A Hope for Healing

 

In both Catholic spirituality and the practice of psychotherapy (Corrigan & Schutte, 2023), hope holds a central place. The ACT in Faith project brings together the framework of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and the theology of the Catholic tradition, grounded in the belief that healing and change are possible.  Whether one is facing mental illness, the weight of daily stress, or unwanted patterns of thought and behavior, the Christian message and therapeutic insights together affirm that we are never without the possibility of renewal.

 

With hope as the starting point, we are not simply being optimistic or or engaging in wishful thinking. In the Catholic tradition it is a theological virtue, a gift from God that anchors the soul and propels us toward the future God promises. It’s a fruit of perseverance, not of outward ease, and a radical choice in difficult circumstances.

 

We even boast of our afflictions, knowing that affliction produces endurance,

and endurance, proven character, and proven character, hope, and hope does

not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured into our hearts through

the Holy Spirit that has been given to us.  

                                                      Romans 5:3–5

 

A roadblock experienced by many is how to experience hope in the midst of difficulties. Christians understand the value of prayer, and it is our belief that God’s action within our souls produces the virtues. God also encourages reason as a partner to faith, and allows us the gift of helping heal the world through our participation in redemption. This includes our scientific endeavors, and the field of modern psychology (Fides et Ratio, John Paul II, 1998).

 

ACT was not created from a Christian framework, but its emphasis on openness, commitment, and living in alignment with one’s values resonates deeply with the teachings of the Church. Taken appropriately, it can be a model for change which compliments Catholic teaching. Together, they offer a path forward: not one of escape from pain, but of meaning within it, and movement through it.

 

Whether you are a person exploring a way to help themselves or a practitioner looking to expand your repertoire of care, my prayers are with you as you read this book. It is not meant to replace professional mental health treatment or spiritual direction, but to serve as a bridge – offering language and tools for those who seek to live with greater integrity, resilience, and faith. The message is simple yet profound: you are not alone, and it is not too late. Change is possible. Grace is real. And hope does not disappoint.

 

But this I will call to mind; therefore I will hope: The Lord’s acts of mercy are not

exhausted, his compassion is not spent; they are renewed each morning—great

is your faithfulness! The Lord is my portion, I tell myself, therefore I will hope in him.  

     

                                                                   Lamentations 3:21–24

 

Corrigan, J.A., Schutte, N.S. (2023). The Relationships between the Hope Dimensions of Agency Thinking and Pathways Thinking With Depression and Anxiety: a Meta-Analysis. Int J Appl Positive Psychology, 8, 211–255. https://doi.org/10.1007/s41042-023-00099-1

 

John Paul II. (1998). Fides et ratio: On the relationship between faith and reason. Vatican Publishing House. https://www.vatican.va/content/john-paul-ii/en/encyclicals/documents/hf_jp-ii_enc_15101998_fides-et-ratio.html