Ambikapur Diocese Sets Up Mental Health Team to Expand Parish-Level Support

AMBIKAPUR, August 14, 2026: The Diocese of Ambikapur has formed a mental health ministry team to expand awareness, counselling and referral services through parishes and local faith communities.

The team was formed following a seminar on “Mental Health at the Grassroots” held at Bishop’s House, Ambikapur, on August 6. The seminar brought together priests, religious and lay faithful to discuss ways of responding to the emotional and psychological needs of individuals, families, children and young people.

Bishop Antony Bara of Ambikapur inaugurated the programme and called for mental health teams to be established at the parish level. He stressed the need for the Church to respond to mental health concerns with greater awareness, compassion and timely support.

Fr. Shinto Mathew, OCD, National President of the Catholic Mental Health Ministry (CMHM) India, led a session on Parish Mental Health Ministry. He highlighted the role of parishes in promoting mental health awareness, identifying concerns at an early stage, providing initial support and facilitating access to professional counselling and other appropriate services.

Sr. Jennifer D’Souza, CMHM Regional Coordinator for Chhattisgarh, conducted a session on “Mental Health in Various Settings.” She addressed the need for mental health support in parishes, educational institutions, healthcare facilities and workplaces, stressing the importance of a coordinated, community-based approach to mental health promotion and prevention.

The newly formed Diocesan Mental Health Ministry Team will be headed by Fr. William Ure, Vicar General of Ambikapur Diocese. The team will coordinate awareness programmes, pastoral accompaniment, counselling support and referral services across the diocese, with particular emphasis on parish communities.

The seminar also provided a platform for clergy, religious and lay participants to discuss ways of integrating mental health care into the Church’s pastoral ministry.

CMHM’s ministry in Chhattisgarh is coordinated by Sr. Jennifer, SHHC. The regional team includes Sr. Cresencia Kerketta, SHHC, Director of RAHA; Fr. William Ure of Ambikapur Diocese; Fr. Jacob; Fr. Millan Ekka of Jashpur Diocese; Sr. Seema Ekka, DSA, Regional Secretary; and Sr. Genebiba, DSA, of Raigarh Diocese.

By Catholic Connect Reporter