The Diocesan Behavioral Health Committee, chaired by Sister Chilee Okoko, D.M.M.M., has been hard at work preparing for this second conference aimed at church and school leadership, clergy, staff and any who serve in ministry. The theme of this year’s conference is “Effectively Ministering with Compassion to Those Affected by Mental Illness.” The conference is held during the month of May, which is observed throughout the United States as Mental Health Awareness Month.
Last year’s conference was well received and attended by many in parish, school and diocesan leadership positions. With some modifications to the schedule, allowing more time in break-out sessions, this year’s gathering is expected to be filled to capacity as all in church and school ministry are welcome. The conference runs from 8:30am-4:30pm.
The keynote speaker this year is Father Luke Dysinger, OSB, MD, PhD. His experience as a Catholic priest, his medical training, and his experience as a Professor of Church History and Moral Theology will bring a unique perspective to the topic of “Being Effective and Compassionate Ministers to those with Dementia.”
Other topics for the breakout sessions include changes associated with addictions, suicide prevention, caring for those with dementia and Alzheimer’s, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) among veterans, behavioral health challenges with children, and managing emotional pain. Professor Emeritus Kenneth Pargament from Bowling Green University will speak on integrating spirituality with mental health care. The wrap-up presentation will be provided by Father Paulinus Odorzor CSSp., PhD., from Notre Dame University. Simultaneous translation in Spanish and ASL will be available for select workshops.
In Pope Francis’ Inaugural Mass we heard him say “if our brother or sister is shut out, it is God Himself who is not being welcomed.” Too often in our society those who live with mental illness are left on the fringe. Join us as together we become educated and empowered to minister with and speak up for the voiceless, our brothers and sisters in Christ.
There is a $15 registration fee to cover the cost of food and all materials.