USCCB expert panel addresses clergy spiritual, mental wellness
In a recent roundtable discussion hosted by the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB), Catholic leaders in mental health and clergy support delved into the complex issue of mental health among priests, discussing the significant responsibilities priests hold caring for others spiritually while often neglecting their own well-being.
Bishop Edward J. Burns of the Diocese of Dallas, who serves on the USCCB Committee on Laity, Marriage, Family Life & Youth, initiated the conversation by highlighting the critical need for mutual care within the clergy.
“I see priests who exhaust themselves for Jesus Christ,” Bishop Burns said. “It’s just amazing how they give and give of themselves…and want to be there for the faithful.
“It is the responsibility of the bishop, the diocese, and the presbyterate to watch out for one another,” continued Bishop Burns, emphasizing the importance of a fraternal and pastoral concern. “As a bishop, I take seriously the words of our Lord Jesus Christ to Peter: ‘Strengthen the brothers.’ This is part of our apostolic mission to ensure our priests are strong and vital.”
Dr. Patricia Donahue, Ph.D., a clinical psychologist from the St. John Vianney Center in Pennsylvania, pointed out the challenges priests face, such as isolation and overwhelming workloads, and the importance of a support system.
“Many priests are living in smaller-sized rectories, often alone, and the isolation that that can bring isn’t always the best environment to your own self-care,” she stated. “A lot of priests feel the responsibility that if they don’t do it, who’s going to do it?”
That thinking often leads to burnout and mental health issues like depression and anxiety, Dr. Donahue said.
The panel also discussed the intersection of spiritual and mental health. Dr. Anthony Isacco, Ph.D., a psychologist and professor at Chatham University, explained, “The moment they stop praying is the moment their mental health also starts to deteriorate.”
Dr. Isacco emphasized the need for holistic care.
“The care priests receive needs to be particularly holistic—mind, body, and spirit,” he said, explaining this approach helps address the common “mental health colds” like depression and anxiety before they escalate.
The panel addressed practical ways to support priests, such as encouraging self-awareness and self-care practices, promoting healthy boundaries, and fostering supportive relationships within the presbyterate.
One key aspect highlighted was the role of the laity in supporting priests. Dr. Donahue shared that simple acts of checking in on a priest’s well-being can make a significant difference: “Instead of coming to him with a problem, say ‘I’m here to check on you, how are you doing today?'”
The experts emphasized that such support is not only beneficial but essential for the long-term well-being of priests.
In June 2023, the USCCB Committee on Clergy, Consecrated Life, and Vocations presented a Guide to Ongoing Formation for Priests, which was approved by bishops at the June 2023 Plenary Assembly. The pastoral document provides guidance for “a holy, healthy priesthood, and the means of formation available to priests.”
In response to the USCCB document, Cardinal Joseph W. Tobin, C.Ss.R., Archbishop of Newark, initiated the process to establish an archdiocesan advisory board for the ongoing formation of its priests. The board will collaborate with archdiocesan clergy leaders to support ongoing clergy development, ensuring they remain effective and spiritually vibrant in their ministries. Their focus will include theological advancements, pastoral care techniques, evolving congregation needs, and self-care for clergy.
“Through mentoring newly ordained priests and new pastors and organizing retreats, fraternity gatherings, and similar events, we aim to encourage priests to reflect on their life and ministry,” said Father John Paladino, director of ongoing formation of priests for the Archdiocese of Newark. “By creating personalized development plans and prioritizing continuous education and self-reflection, clergy can effectively tackle modern challenges, provide more relevant guidance, and inspire lifelong learning in their communities.”
Ongoing formation also promotes personal growth, reduces burnout, and boosts the overall well-being and resilience of clergy, benefiting the entire faith community they serve, added Father Paladino.
During the roundtable’s conclusion, Bishop Burns emphasized the spiritual aspect of the priest’s mission, quoting St. Paul’s exhortation to “fan into flame the gifts you received.” This call to renew their spiritual fervor underscores the connection between a priest’s spiritual and mental well-being.
Click here to watch the full-length video of the USCCB roundtable.
To learn more about the Archdiocese of Newark’s vocation to the priesthood, visit www.rcan.org/vocations-archdiocesan-priesthood.
Featured image: Canva
