The topic of mental health issues was unpacked by persons who minister to individuals and families in pastoral settings.
PHOTO GALLERY: Pastoral Care Retreat
Gathered for a daylong retreat on “Holding Onto Hope: Supporting Mental Health with Pastoral Care” May 7 in San Alfonso Retreat House, West End, some 100 priests, deacons, chaplains, campus ministers, as well as those who visit the sick and homebound, bereavement and consolation ministers, support group leaders and those who work in faith formation and youth and young adults were reminded of their call to recognize suffering, foster compassion and accompany those in need toward healing. They were given information that could assist them in recognizing the signs of persons with mental health challenges and on how they can serve as a source of support to those persons and their families.
The retreat was presented by Deacon Ed Shoener, president of the Association of Catholic Mental Health Ministers, who addressed a range of topics, including helping participants to become aware of their own mental health and learn how common anxiety and depression are being experienced by the individuals they serve. He addressed how participants could cultivate a deeper understanding and caring attitude toward those who suffer and learn simple action steps within their parish communities to break the stigma around mental illness.
In addition to the two sessions led by Deacon Shoener, the gathering had time for group discussions, personal reflection time and attended Mass celebrated by Father William Lago, pastor of St. Denis Parish, Manasquan.
More to come on this story.
Deacon Ed Shoener president of the Association of Catholic Mental Health Ministers leads the retreat for pastoral caregivers.