“Addressing Mental Health Needs with Spiritual Care: A Workshop for Orthodox Clergy and Parish Leaders”

The 2024 Clergy-Laity Congress hosted a workshop on mental health ministries provided by the Assembly of Orthodox Bishops in the United States. Led by Sangeetha S. Thomas (MS), Randa K. Anderson (PhD), Fr. Vasili Hillhouse (M.Div., M.A.), and Rebecca Pearsall (MSW), the workshop, titled “The Assembly of Bishops’ Mental Health Ministries,” aimed to explore the intersection of spiritual care and ministry with the mental health needs of parishioners.

The presenters encouraged attendees to consider the complexities of addressing mental health within the context of the church. They discussed how clergy and parish leadership can support the overall well-being of their congregation, highlighting the importance of taking responsible actions and the prevalence of mental health issues in communities.

The workshop also touched on the impact of socio-cultural stigma surrounding mental health and how this can affect an individual’s spiritual growth. Attendees learned about various resources available to help address the increasing mental health needs within Orthodox communities.

Overall, the workshop provided valuable insights into how clergy and parish leaders can address mental health concerns within their congregations while also providing support and resources for those in need. It emphasized the importance of integrating mental health care with spiritual care to better serve the holistic well-being of parishioners.