Pope Leo XIV dedicates October prayer to mental health ministry

Pope Leo XIV has made mental health ministry the focus of his October prayer intention, urging the Church to become a welcoming community that listens without judgment, accompanies people living with mental illness and rejects stigma and exclusion. His prayer also recognizes the needs of caregivers, including health professionals, relatives and volunteers, and calls for mental health care to be integrated into the Church’s community life. The intention is being highlighted by the Diocese of Phoenix, whose mental health ministry director Mary Permoda offers a reflection honoring Bishop John Dolan’s work supporting people affected by mental illness and suicide loss.