USA Conference 2024

The University of Saint Mary of the Lake Seminary in Mundelein, Illinois,  was the site of our recent National Catholic Mental Health Ministry Conference - Building a Culture of Community: Equipping Leaders for Mental Health Ministry!

From April 25 to 27, 2024, approximately 180 participants, both in person and virtually, representing various US dioceses, alongside some  international attendees from Canada, Australia, India, and Africa,  attended the conference.

Esteemed guests Archbishop Borys Gudziak, Ukrainian Catholic Archeparchy of Philadelphia and Co-Chair USCCB National Catholic Mental Health Campaign, Bishop John Dolan, Diocese of Phoenix and CMHM Chaplain, and Archbishop Murray Chatlain, Diocese of Keewatin-Le Pas, Canada, joined us, alongside 130 other dedicated individuals who gathered in person at Mundelein. The presence of so many clergy, religious, and laypeople served as a testament to the growing recognition of the need for Mental Health Ministry within the Catholic Church.

The conference and topics aimed to inspire and educate about best practices for providing mental health ministries in our parish communities. Sessions covered how to address the needs of various populations, such as rural areas, young adults and spanish speaking communities, the importance of spiritual support groups, and the role of partnerships in mental health ministry.

Here you'll find a treasure trove of resources, including links to the recorded conference sessions, captivating photographs in video format, and insightful materials presented during the conference. 

One of the highlights of our conference was introducing our newly established learning center, a source of knowledge and resources for those who want to learn more about mental health ministry. In addition to thought-provoking panel discussions and breakout sessions, participants were offered moments of personal reflection and spiritual nourishment through Prayer, Adoration, and Eucharistic celebrations.