Catholic Church in Chhattisgarh Launches Mental Health Ministry at the Grassroots

Chhattisgarh, August 13, 2025: The Catholic Church in Chhattisgarh has taken a pioneering step to address mental health challenges at the grassroots level by launching a dedicated Mental Health Ministry initiative. RAHA (Raigarh Ambikapur Health Association), in collaboration with the Catholic Mental Health Ministry (CMHM), successfully organised a two-day training programme on Mental Health and Life Skill Management at Pathalgaon from July 8-9, for 45 religious sisters engaged in health and pastoral care across the three dioceses of the region.

The initiative, led by Sr. Crecen Toppo, Executive Director of RAHA, aimed to empower frontline sisters with the knowledge and skills needed to respond effectively to mental health concerns in their communities. Sr. Toppo underscored the urgency of equipping spiritual caregivers to offer both pastoral and psychological support, describing the programme as a significant milestone in the Church’s mission of healing and accompaniment.

Sessions were facilitated by Sr. Jenifer, Coordinator of the Catholic Mental Health Ministry and faculty member at Holy Cross College of Nursing. Representing CMHM—a network under the CBCI Office for Healthcare—she brought clinical expertise and pastoral sensitivity to the sessions, making them deeply engaging and transformative.

The workshop provided participants with an opportunity to reflect on their own mental wellness while learning to foster resilience, healing, and hope among those they serve. Many attendees reported feeling renewed in their mission and better prepared to accompany vulnerable individuals with compassion and confidence.

RAHA’s collaboration with CMHM offers a commendable model for integrating mental health awareness into the Church’s outreach at the grassroots. CMHM, recognised as India’s leading ecclesial network for mental health, is committed to making mental health support accessible in every Catholic diocese and parish. Built on the three pillars of Education, Accompaniment, and Advocacy, it strives to strengthen resilience, nurture meaning and purpose in life, and respond to the growing mental health needs of underserved populations.

Catholic Church in Chhattisgarh Launches Mental Health Ministry at the Grassroots

Latest News