By MARY STADNYK
Associate Editor
As a priest who regularly encounters people of all ages dealing w
Father Arian Wharffith issues such as depression and anxiety, Father Arian Wharff wanted to do something to help.
And having a desire to take a prayerful approach led Father Wharff to plan a Healing Mass for Mental Health and Wellness to be held Sept. 26 in St. Anthony of Padua Church, 251 Franklin St., Hightstown. It’s his hope, he said, that the Mass is a way to “let those who are struggling with mental health challenges know they are not alone.”
“We need to have these conversations without fear, especially with our young people, and address the alarming issue of suicide,” said Father Wharff, parish parochial vicar. “[I want to let these people know that] there is always hope, and there are people ready to help.”
Father Wharff said that that all parishes in the Diocese are invited to the Mass that’s being held for the first time and that an entire schedule has been planned to support the attendees. The evening begins at 6:30 p.m. in the chapel with meditative silent prayer before the Blessed Sacrament. Mass will follow at 7 in the main church and the evening will conclude with a reception where resources and information from mental health professionals will also be available.
“I hope that this Mass will help to remove the stigma surrounding mental health,” Father Wharff said. “We want to encourage people to start having open conversations about [mental health issues] at home and with friends. By creating this space, we hope that those who are struggling will feel supported and not rejected or abandoned,” he said. “We want families to feel the closeness of the Church as they navigate these difficult circumstances. We aim to provide a sacred space for attendees, particularly those dealing with mental health issues and their caregivers, where they can feel supported, loved and experience God’s peace.”