Mental Health, Faith and Community: Rethinking How the Church Cares, with Professor John Swinton

What does it mean for the Church to be a place where people living with mental health challenges, learning disabilities or dementia feel truly welcomed – as people to be loved, understood, and included?

In this talk, Professor John Swinton will explore how Christian faith can shape the way we think about mental health and how the Church can become a community of genuine belonging. Drawing on his background in both theology and mental health care, he will reflect on the roles of prayer, preaching, and worship in responding to difficult psychological experiences – not simply by offering answers, but by allowing space for honesty, hope and compassion.

The session will invite participants to think practically and theologically about what it means to listen well, to accompany others faithfully, and to create a Church culture that values every person, irrespective of their condition or capacity.

Clergy, congregation members, carers and mental health professionals are all most welcome. Details of how to register will be provided on the Diocesan website and in the Cathedral newsletter in due course.