Description
073: Grace and Madness and Grace: Faith, Mental Health and the Mission of the Church
Matthew Stanford, Ph.D.
Hope and Healing Center & Institute
717 Sage Rd.
Houston, TX 77056
Summary
Research tells us that when most people suffer from a mental health crisis, the first person they turn to for help is a not a physician, a psychiatrist, or a social worker, but a pastor, a priest, or a minister. In other words, a leader in their church. Unfortunately, many church leaders are not trained to recognize mental illness and don’t know when to refer someone to a mental health professional. The consequence—unintended yet tragic—is continued and unnecessary suffering. In this session, Dr. Stanford will discuss how the Church can minister to those living with serious mental illness today.
Learning Objectives
Participants will:
• Discuss common religious concerns about mental health
• Describe the spiritual aspects of serious mental illness
• Identify ways church communities can support people on the road to recovery
