The Catholic Bishops’ Conference of India (CBCI), through its Office for Health Care, has partnered with the Catholic Mental Health Ministry (CMHM) to hold a two-day seminar addressing mental health issues among priests and religious leaders.
The seminar, themed “Fostering Positive Mental Health in Religious and Priestly Life and Ministry,” will take place on November 26-27 at Nirjhari, Bangalore.
The initiative aims to shed light on the rising prevalence of mental health challenges and their impact on clergy and religious life, according to Catholic Connect.
The event will feature discussions on identifying mental health disorders, understanding risk factors, effective interventions, and fostering a culture that promotes help-seeking behaviors.
Training sessions on mental health literacy and guidance are also on the agenda.
Resource speakers include prominent figures such as Archbishop Peter Machado of Bangalore; Archbishop Thomas Tharayil of Changanassery and Ecclesiastical Advisor for CMHM India; Fr. Santhosh Dias, National Secretary of the CBCI Commission for Health Care; Sr. Dr. Joan Chunkapura MMS, National Secretary of CMHM India; and psychiatrists from esteemed institutions such as St. John’s Medical College Hospital and Stella Maris Hospital.
Mental health challenges often create barriers for individuals, including those in religious life, as they seek deeper spiritual and personal fulfillment.
The Catholic Church in India said it acknowledges the silent struggles of priests and religious leaders who grapple with these issues.
In his book, Christianity in India, Fr. Paul Parathazham underscores the importance of integrating mental health into religious life, stating, “All efforts seem to be concentrated on building a spiritual superstructure without adequate attention to the human base structure.”
He emphasizes the necessity of fostering a healthy mind to sustain genuine Christian spirituality.
The CBCI and CMHM called on clergy and religious leaders to prioritize their mental well-being while maintaining their spiritual commitments.
