LONDON, 14th September 2021 – Sanctuary Mental Health Ministries announced today that The Most Revd and Rt Hon Justin Welby, Archbishop of Canterbury, has become patron in light of its work equipping the Church to support mental health and wellbeing.
Equipping the Church to Respond
The Most Revd and Rt Hon Justin Welby, Archbishop of Canterbury, said: “Mental and emotional wellbeing is key to human flourishing—and at the heart of God’s desire for each one of us. Many of us will encounter challenges in our mental health over the course of our lives, and it is vital that the Church is equipped with the tools to respond effectively and with compassion.”
“Sanctuary’s resources are particularly needed as we recover from the impact of the pandemic. The experiences of people living with mental health challenges shape Sanctuary’s work, and is underpinned by thorough research and theology. I am delighted to become a patron of this innovative organisation, and I would encourage Christians to seek out The Sanctuary Course and run it in their community.’’
Daniel Whitehead, CEO of Sanctuary: “We are thrilled to announce the patronage of Archbishop Justin. Our respect for him is inspired not only by the office that he holds, but also his openness about his lived experience of mental health challenges. He exemplifies the kind of leadership the Church needs, marked by vulnerability and compassion. In addition, Archbishop Justin’s commitment to ecumenism mirrors Sanctuary’s commitment to the whole body of Christ. We couldn’t have wished for a better patron, and we are overjoyed to welcome him as Sanctuary’s first.”
You can learn more about the Archbishop here.
Sanctuary Mental Health Ministries is a Christian non-profit that equips the Church to support mental health and wellbeing. Founded in Canada in 2012, Sanctuary established a UK charity in 2020 offering training and online resources, all of which were made free during the pandemic. Sanctuary envisions a future where the Church plays a vital role in supporting mental health and wellbeing in every community. We provide resources that meaningfully engage the topics of faith and mental health. Our content is developed in collaboration with theologians, psychologists, and people with lived experience of mental health challenges. These resources prepare communities of faith around the world to raise awareness, reduce stigma, support mental health, and promote mental wellbeing. . At the heart of Sanctuary’s offer is The Sanctuary Course, an eight-week small group resource designed to help a church explore the topic of mental health through the lenses of theology, psychology, and lived experience.