Catholic leaders and institutions are convening in Rome on October 9-10 to enhance the Church’s ministry for individuals facing mental health challenges, combating stigma and discrimination. This gathering, titled “A Healing Presence: The Church’s Call to Mental Health Ministry,” is organized by the International Association of Catholic Mental Health Ministers in collaboration with the Don Luigi Di Liegro International Foundation and the Pope’s Worldwide Prayer Network. It is held under the patronage of the Pontifical Academy for Life and coincides with World Mental Health Day.
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Participants will include bishops, pastoral workers, mental health experts, and individuals with lived experiences of mental illness. Opening discussions will occur at the Complesso del Gesù, focusing on topics such as “Stigma, Welcome, and Safe Spaces” and “Caregivers, Bridges, and Integration.” A Mass will follow at the Church of the Gesù.
On the second day, participants will visit the Don Luigi Di Liegro Foundation to explore its mental health initiatives, discuss the mental health situation among young people in Italy, and hear from caregivers and patients about their experiences. A press conference in the afternoon will feature bishops from Ukraine, South Africa, India, Ethiopia, and Haiti, who will share insights from their local mental health ministries.
Additionally, the gathering will introduce two new video courses on Basic Mental Health Literacy and Psychological First Aid, available free of charge to dioceses, parishes, and media organizations. The event will conclude with a Rosary at the Lourdes Grotto in the Vatican Gardens.