At the upcoming 2024 Clergy-Laity Congress, a group of experts led a workshop on the Assembly of Orthodox Bishops’ mental health ministries. Sangeetha S. Thomas (MS), Randa K. Anderson (PhD), Fr. Vasili Hillhouse (M.Div., M.A.), and Rebecca Pearsall (MSW) jointly presented “The Assembly of Bishops’ Mental Health Ministries.” The goal of the workshop was to explore how spiritual care and ministry intersect in addressing the mental health needs of parishioners.
During the session, attendees were encouraged to consider the delicate balance between spiritual well-being and mental health support. The conversation focused on how clergy and parish leaders can promote holistic wellness within their communities. Key topics included responsible considerations when dealing with mental health issues, the prevalence of mental illness within communities, and how socio-cultural stigma surrounding mental health can impact an individual’s spiritual growth.
Moreover, the workshop emphasized the diverse resources available to support individuals struggling with mental health concerns. By addressing these growing needs, clergy and parish leadership can effectively attend to the holistic well-being of their congregations and create a safe and supportive environment for those seeking help.
Participants gained valuable insights and practical tools from this engaging workshop that they could integrate into their existing spiritual care practices.
Overall, “The Assembly of Bishops’ Mental Health Ministries” provided attendees with a deeper understanding of how spiritual care and ministry intersect in addressing mental health concerns within their communities.