The World Council of Churches (WCC) has announced its 13th Global Ecumenical Health Network Meeting, which is set to take place on October 11, following World Mental Health Day on October 10. This year’s theme, “Mental health is a universal human right,” highlights the significant role that faith communities play in promoting mental well-being.
These meetings, which have been ongoing since May 2020, have provided a platform for ecumenical partners to come together to address various health challenges, with a specific focus on the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.
The agenda for the upcoming meeting will center around the opportunities and challenges that faith communities face in their engagement with mental health. Additionally, it will feature the launch of “Resilient Life Rhythm” pamphlets, offering Christian perspectives on mental health, and will showcase the practical experiences of church-led mental health initiatives in South Africa.
A diverse range of participants, including Christian health associations, regional ecumenical organizations, and attendees from the 2021 contextual Bible study workshops, will contribute to this collaborative discussion.