The United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) announced a new component to the National Catholic Mental Health Campaign aimed at "amplifying local engagement on mental health."
The initiative, called "Healing and Hope," was announced in a press release published September 15, the day of the Jubilee of Consolation, feast of Our Lady of Sorrows.
The initiative aims to promote "healing and hope for all who struggle with mental illness and is inclusive of the people who accompany them," said the release.
As part of the "Healing and Hope" initiative, there will be a "revitalized" digital campaign featuring reflections written by bishops; state conferences on mental health; and the creation of "Mental Health Sunday."
Mental Health Sunday
"Mental Health Sunday" will be observed during Masses the weekend following World Mental Health Day, which is each year on October 10. In 2025, Mental Health Sunday will occur on October 11 and 12.
Parishes are encouraged to pray for those who struggle with their mental health during these Masses, said the USCCB. Resources are available for parishes that wish to participate.
The first state conference will be held in 2026 in New Jersey, said the bishops.
"Healing and Hope" was named after the introductory statement of the National Catholic Mental Health Campaign, said the USCCB. The statement was written by Archbishop Borys Gudziak and Bishop Robert Barron.
“As pastors, we want to emphasize this point to anyone who is suffering from mental illness or facing mental health challenges: nobody and nothing can alter or diminish your God-given dignity. You are a beloved child of God, a God of healing and hope.”
In addition to these components of the new initiative, the faithful are invited to partake in the Novena for Mental Health from October 10 through October 18, said the USCCB.
