MANILA: Manila Archbishop Jose Cardinal Advincula (pic) encouraged fellow members of the clergy to confront and address their mental and emotional challenges, noting that about 18 per cent of Filipino priests reported psychological distress in a recent survey.
“Recently, many priests have reported episodes of depression, anxiety, loneliness, grief, burnout and compassion fatigue,” he said in his homily during the Chrism Mass at Manila Cathedral on Maundy Thursday. “This is a concern we cannot ignore anymore and we have to face it to resolve it.”
Advincula urged the priests to acknowledge the signs and symptoms of their mental and emotional difficulties, saying this is the first step in resolving the issue.
He noted that denial, shame, or blaming others would only bring greater resentment and emotional burden. He reminded the clergy that acknowledging their struggles is a vital step toward healing.
While the Church’s mission is to guide and lift others, the bishop told the priests that “we cannot ignore our own hearts. Sometimes, the downtrodden, the captive, and the brokenhearted are our very selves, our own minds, and our own hearts.”
Moreover, when a priest is going through a difficult time, Advincula warns that this may cause him to not notice or realise that his followers are also experiencing hardships.
Advincula urged priests to stay connected with others during difficult times, noting that even Jesus lived in communion with his disciples and communities.
“To be a priest is to be a priest with,” he reminded members of the clergy.
“We are never alone in this vocation, in this ministry. You always have a father in me, and you always have brothers in your fellow priests.”
The archbishop emphasised that facing mental health difficulties does not signify failure, but a sign that he remains human.
A priest remains holy not only when strong but also when he admits his weaknesses, he further stressed.
“No matter the burdens we carry, we are still anointed, still called, and sustained by the Spirit—not because of what we feel or achieve, but because God is faithful,” he added. - Philippine Daily Inquirer/ANN
