In four regional synods, RCA Disability Concerns is piloting personalized support to churches, classes, and regions wanting to grow their ministry capacity in mental health so that churches can become safe, supportive communities where everybody belongs and everybody serves. We’re doing this by creating a regionally based network of experienced mental health consultants who are available to provide education and training to RCA churches upon request.
These trained, experienced mental health professionals are RCA members who want to assist churches in eliminating the stigma associated with mental illnesses. They are available to plan and lead education and training events, consult with pastors and other church leaders seeking to start or deepen church ministries related to mental health, offer direction in improving a congregation’s culture and understanding around mental health issues, and consult with pastors about their response to parishioners facing mental health challenges.
The role of these consultants is not to provide individual counseling to people struggling with their own mental wellbeing. Rather, these consultants are available to offer education, raise awareness, and counsel churches in becoming safe, supportive places where people impacted by mental illnesses can know they will be loved and supported rather than ostracized or stigmatized.