Scripture affirms the holistic nature of human beings. In 1 Thessalonians 5:23, the Apostle Paul prays, “May your whole spirit and soul and body be kept blameless at the coming of Our Lord Jesus Christ.” This trinitarian view of the human person invites the Church to minister to all aspects of life- spiritual, emotional, and physical. When someone experiences mental illness, it is not merely a psychological event but a profound spiritual and communal concern. Jesus Himself ministered to those suffering from torment and despair. In Mark 5:1-20, He heals the Gerasene demoniac- a man alienated and mentally afflicted. Christ’s approach was not condemnation but compassionate restoration. Likewise, the Church must emulate this mercy, becoming a sanctuary for those struggling silently in the pews.  

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            Beloved, the Church’s responsibility is multifaceted. First, congregations must cultivate environments of empathy and nonjudgment, offering safe spaces where vulnerability is met with grace. Second, communities of faith should partner with mental health professionals, integrating pastoral care with clinical expertise. Where there is no guidance, people fall, but in an abundance of counselors there is safety (Proverbs 11:14). Christian leaders should not shy away from referring members to therapy or medical treatment when appropriate. Additionally, theological education must address mental health theologically and practically. Clergy must be equipped to discern when pastoral counseling is sufficient, and when psychiatric intervention is necessary. Prayer is powerful, but we must remember that God often works through the hands of trained professionals as well.

 

            As we mark Mental Health Awareness each May, let us renew our commitment to be a Church that heals. May we see those who suffer not as spiritually weak but as beloved children of God in need of holistic grace. The call is clear: to bind the broken hearted (Isaiah 611:1), lift the weary, and restore the joy of salvation to those in despair (Psalm 51:12). In doing so, we are Kingdom Walkers- not just in word, but also in our deeds.

 

 

From Silence to Sanctuary

“The Lord is near the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in spirit” (Psalm 34:18).

In the hush of hidden torment, where shadows know my name,

I wore my pain in silence, beneath a veil of shame.

My cries were cloaked in quiet, my heart- a barren land.

No balm, no vice, no refuge, just trembling in the sand.

 

The world moved on, unknowing, as I withered in the night,

And prayers turned faint and hollow beneath the weight of fright.

Yet still a spark-a whisper-flickered in despair,

A sacred  echo rising,  “Child, I see you there.”

 

“Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for You are with me” (Psalm 23:4).

When silence grew unbearable, when darkness drew too near,

I found a hand extended, gentle, firm, and clear.

A preacher spoke of mercy, a therapist of grace,

A friend gave room for weeping, no judgment in their face.

 

The Church became a harbor, a sanctuary deep,

Where souls like mine were tended, where healing learns to speak.

No longer must I falter in secret and pain-

The  Body bore my burden and did not look with disdain.

 

“Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ” (Galatians 6:2).

Through sacred conversations and stillness bathed in prayer,

Through Scriptures read in trembling and songs that cleaved the air,

My mind began unbinding, uncoiling from the snare,

My soul found holy tending, my spirit breathed new care.

 

Wise counsel wrapped around me, like oil upon my skin.

Anointing wounds long hidden and drawing light within.

Profession met with pastor, both shepherds in their way.

Each used of God to guide me from night into the day.

 

“Be transformed by the renewing of your mind” (Romans 12:2).

So, come, all who are hiding, come weary, torn, and tossed-

This path has room for pilgrims, the hurting and the lost.

In Christ, we find a haven, in Community- a grace,

A sacred space to whisper the truths we dare not face.

 

Jesus meets us in the shadows; He walks us into peace.

In Jesus’ love and people, the silence finds release.

No shame, no more pretending- our stories now made whole,

For Christ restores the broken. He is the Restorer of the soul.

 

“He restores my soul” (Psalm 23:3).