Autoimmune Friends in Faith

Faith, hope, and healing provide a steadfast foundation for individuals navigating chronic illness such as autoimmune diseases.

Mission

Defined by Faith; Not by Limitations

Faith, hope, and healing provide a steadfast foundation for individuals navigating chronic illness such as autoimmune diseases. According to the Autoimmune Association, approximately 50 million Americans are living with an autoimmune disease – far surpassing coronary artery disease, COPD, Alzheimers disease, HIC, or individual cancers. And globally, autoimmune disease incidence is rising by an estimated 3-12% each year. Early diagnosis, stronger advocacy, with community, connection, and support is vital to a positive outcome.

Mission: Christ-Centered, Support/Connection, Advocacy, Outreach, and Service

· Christ-Centered: Empower individuals navigating autoimmune diseases to experience emotional comfort and physical wholeness through the grace and love of Jesus Christ and the power of a Catholic community.

· Support/Connection: Unite believers in a fellowship of unconditional love, mutual encouragement and shared prayer, ensuring that no one walks their chronic illness journey alone.

· Advocacy: Equip those facing autoimmune challenges with biblical encouragement and practical support, transforming their health journey into a testimony of faith, perseverance, and victory.

· Outreach: Extend our reach beyond the church walls by welcoming all into a supportive and caring Catholic community.

· Service: Encourage members to discover how to become the hands and feet of Christ so as to serve the Lord while going through your own unique abilities.

Benefits of Faith-Based Support:

· Validating Shared Experience: Connects you with believers who understand the challenges of living with invisible illnesses, often where family and friends may not understand.

· Prayer and Encouragement: Focuses on spiritual encouragement, helping members maintain a positive outlook and find purpose.

· Overcoming Isolation: Offers a community for people who feel isolated.

· Holistic Focus: Discusses both managing physical symptoms and maintaining a strong faith.

At St. Rose, we would like to create a safe, welcoming environment for members with autoimmune disease the opportunity to share their struggles and triumphs, find meaning and purpose in their circumstances, and learn about healthy coping mechanisms all in a faith-based Catholic ministry trusting in God’s all powerful love, strength and grace knowing He has a plan for us.

Autoimmune Friends in Faith

Meeting Dates 2026-2027

  • Saturday, November 7, 2026 at 3:30pm in the Fellowship Center

  • Saturday, December 5, 2026 at 3:30pm in the Fellowship Center

  • Saturday, January 9, 2027 at 3:30pm in the Parish Hall

  • Saturday, February 6, 2027 at 3:30pm in the Parish Hall

  • Saturday, March 6, 2027 at 3:30pm in the Parish Hall

  • Saturday, April 3, 2027 at 3:30pm in the Parish Hall

  • Saturday, May 1, 2027 at 3:30pm in the Parish Hall

  • Saturday, June 5, 2027 at 3:30pm in the Parish Hall