At the upcoming 2024 Clergy-Laity Congress, a workshop led by Sangeetha S. Thomas (MS), Randa K. Anderson (PhD), Fr. Vasili Hillhouse (M.Div., M.A.), and Rebecca Pearsall (MSW) will explore the mental health ministries provided by the Assembly of Orthodox Bishops in the United States of America. The session, titled “The Assembly of Bishops’ Mental Health Ministries,” aims to delve into the intersection between spiritual care and ministry in addressing the mental health needs of parishioners.
During the workshop, attendees will be encouraged to consider how spiritual well-being and mental health support intersect and how clergy and parish leaders can promote overall well-being within their congregations. Key topics of discussion will include responsible considerations for promoting mental health support, prevalence of mental health issues within communities, socio-cultural stigma surrounding mental health, and its impact on an individual’s spiritual growth.
The session will also highlight diverse resources available to support individuals struggling with mental health concerns. By integrating these resources into existing spiritual care practices, clergy and parish leadership can effectively address growing mental health needs while fostering a safe and supportive environment for those seeking help.
Participants in the workshop will gain valuable insights and practical tools for integrating mental health ministries into their existing practices, enabling them to provide comprehensive care to their congregations. The session promises to be an enlightening experience that will empower attendees to create a more holistic approach to spiritual care within their parishes.