Pilar Fathers Focus on Clergy Mental Health During Annual Retreat

Mumbai, September 1, 2026: Mental health concerns affecting priests, including suicide awareness and the need for professional support, were brought into focus during awareness sessions organised by the Mumbai Province of the Society of the Missionaries of St. Francis Xavier, popularly known as the Pilar Fathers, as part of its annual retreat for priests held in two batches in August.

The sessions provided priests with an opportunity to engage openly with mental health challenges affecting clergy in India and to reflect on practical ways of caring for their own well-being while supporting fellow priests and the communities they serve.

Fr. Isaac D'Souza OFM Cap, Western Region CMHM India Coordinator Edwin Walker, Vice President of CMHM India, and Dr Elizabeth Lobo facilitated the sessions.

Participants were presented with current data on mental health struggles among priests, followed by discussions on their causes and the particular pressures and challenges experienced by clergy.

Suicide awareness formed a major part of the programme. The priests were helped to recognise warning signs and were offered practical guidance on responding with care when concerns arise in their own lives, among fellow priests or within the communities entrusted to their pastoral care.

The sessions also stressed the importance of seeking professional help when needed. Participants reflected on practical ways of strengthening personal well-being, supporting one another and bringing Christ's healing presence into their ministries and communities.

Interactive sessions and question-and-answer programmes enabled participants to discuss mental health concerns arising from their daily lives and pastoral responsibilities. The gatherings provided space for priests to raise questions, share concerns and reflect together on an issue that is often difficult to discuss openly.

Fr. Savio Coutinho, Mumbai Province Provincial Superior, said the sessions and interactions had helped him and the priests of the province gain a deeper understanding of various issues related to mental health.

“The insights and sharing helped us understand and reflect more deeply on mental health concerns and on the importance of caring for our own well-being and that of others,” he said.

The initiative is part of the wider work of CMHM India to equip clergy, religious and others with practical tools for holistic health and pastoral care. The organisation continues to collaborate with dioceses, religious congregations and institutions across India to promote mental health awareness and support.

Coming at the beginning of Suicide Prevention Month, the initiative underscored the importance of compassion, openness and timely support in responding to mental health concerns and in accompanying those in need with care and Christ's healing love.

By Sr. Virginia T Sangma 

National Executive Secretary, CMHM India