Diocese of Fall River to hold Masses for Mental Health Awareness

The Diocese of Fall River will hold two special Masses this October to raise awareness for individuals and families affected by mental illness, substance use, and suicide loss. During these liturgies, Bishop Edgar M. da Cunha will address the mental health crisis and discuss resources available through the diocese.

The Masses also serve to recognize the Parish Mental Health Ministry, a program run by Catholic Charities. This ministry trains lay volunteers to support parishioners facing mental health and substance use challenges. In less than three years, the program has trained 80 certified ministers across eight parishes and served more than 1,000 people. The diocese expects to have more than 100 trained ministers serving various pastoral communities by November.

Jack Weldon, the coordinator for Catholic Charities, stated that the Masses aim to remind those affected by mental health challenges that they are welcomed and can find support within the Church.