Catholic Church Calls for Mental Health Ministry in Every Parish

GUWAHATI, November 9, 2026: The Catholic Mental Health Ministry (CMHM) has called for the establishment of a dedicated mental health ministry in every Catholic parish to address growing psychological and emotional challenges and make mental health care an integral part of the Church's pastoral mission.

The proposal was among the key recommendations of the National Mental Health Conference held on November 5 and 6 at the Archdiocese of Guwahati under the theme, “Breaking Barriers and Bringing Hope.” The conference brought together 245 participants from across the country.

Organised under the CBCI Office for Healthcare in collaboration with the North East Community Health Association and the Conference of Religious (CRI), North East Region, the conference highlighted the Church's responsibility to accompany individuals and families facing mental health challenges.

Archbishop John Moolachira of Guwahati inaugurated the conference, calling on the Church to become a compassionate presence for people experiencing emotional and psychological distress.

In his presidential address, Archbishop Thomas Netto, Chairman of the CBCI Office for Healthcare, described mental health care as an essential responsibility of the Church. Referring to the Good Samaritan, he urged the Church to reach out to vulnerable families, children, young people and the elderly.

He said building a compassionate and caring Church was not merely an initiative but a Gospel mandate and an urgent need.

Archbishop Thomas Tharayil, Ecclesiastical Advisor of CMHM, conveyed his message through a video address, encouraging the ministry to continue promoting mental health and holistic well-being.

The conference examined mental health concerns in the country, with particular attention to challenges in the North Eastern states. Fr Santhosh Dias, National Secretary of the CBCI Office for Healthcare, presented an overview of the mental health situation and the Church's role in responding to it. Mental health professionals from the North East discussed regional concerns and challenges facing communities.

Sr Dr Joan Chunkapura, National Secretary of CMHM, and Fr Dr Kurien Puramadam, Director of CMHM in the Thamarassery Diocese, explored the relationship between mental health and spirituality. Participants also discussed cultural stigma, misconceptions and myths that prevent people from seeking psychological support.

Deacon Ed Shoener, International President of the Association of Catholic Mental Health Ministers, addressed the gathering through a video message, stressing the need to strengthen mental health ministry.

VG Hospital, Assam, received the CMHM National Award for Excellence in Community Mental Health in recognition of its contribution to community-based mental health care. Archbishop Albert Hemrom presented the award.

Sessions also addressed the mental health and well-being of priests and religious, highlighting the need for emotional support, psychological care and holistic wellness within Church institutions.

Sr Dr Rani Augustine, MSA, National Director of CMHM, presented the ministry's vision and mission. Sr Virginia T. Sangma, National Executive Secretary, and Edwin Walker, National Vice President, led discussions on networking, collaboration and expanding the ministry across the country.

Participants were introduced to parish and community-based initiatives from different regions. Sr Dr Aniamma Kurian presented the Odisha model, while Jipson from the Kerala Regional Team shared experiences from Kerala. Catholic hospitals and institutions also showcased their contributions to mental health care.

In a session on holistic wellness and skill development, Dr Joan Chunkapura stressed the importance of equipping pastoral workers and community volunteers with practical knowledge and skills to identify mental health concerns and respond appropriately.

A major outcome of the conference was the formation of the Catholic Mental Health Ministry Regional Team for North East India. Fr Esack Rayappan was appointed Regional Director, while Fr Chacko, Sr Theresa Joseph MSMHC and Fr George Shining SDB were named Associate Directors. State-level coordinators were also selected to strengthen grassroots initiatives across the region.

The new team is expected to coordinate awareness programmes, early identification of mental health concerns, referrals and support services, while developing a regional network of Catholic institutions and pastoral workers.

The conference also proposed observing Mental Health Sunday on the second Sunday of October every year to promote awareness, challenge stigma and encourage collective responsibility for mental well-being.

CMHM has been expanding its work through awareness programmes, capacity-building initiatives, institutional partnerships and community engagement. Its efforts have also received international recognition through a Guinness World Records achievement.

The conference concluded with a renewed commitment to making the Church a community that listens, understands and accompanies people experiencing mental health difficulties. Participants stressed that mental health care must become a shared responsibility and that no one should be left to face psychological distress alone.

By Sr. Virginia T Sangma

National Executive Secretary

CMHM India