The Office of Black Catholic Ministries will host Hope, Unity and Relationships Mental Health Retreat Nov. 7 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at New All Saints in Liberty Heights.
The retreat, emceed by Spiritan Father Kenny Udumka, pastor of New All Saints, will focus on building a foundation for better mental health and stress management.
Historically, Black communities have faced mental health challenges shaped by racism, discrimination and unequal access to care, leading to the mistrust of health care, Father Udumka said.
Aimed to combat stigma and discrimination of mental health in Black communities, Father Udumka said the retreat is an alternative way of healing that recognizes historical truths in a more trusted context. Father Udumka hopes the retreat fosters “a special space that respects culture and historical experiences of Black Catholics.”
“Even now, stigma keeps many from getting help – only about 25 percent of Black Americans seek mental health treatment when needed, compared to 40 percent of white Americans,” Father Udumka said.
The priest added that mental health is a part of everyone’s overall health.
“Anyone in the Black Catholic community, with or without a diagnosis, can face mental health challenges at any stage of life,” Father Udumka said.
The retreat will feature multiple panelists, interactive breakout sessions and vision board making.
Panelists will include:
- Cecilia Parker, psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner
- Melissa Freymann, licensed clinical professional counselor who works out of St. John the Evangelist in Severna Park
- Jordan Derby, digital safety expert and owner of Comfort Keepers of Annapolis, an in-home senior care company
- Jacob and Dyllis Minang, educators at Chesterton Academy of the Divine Family in Hagerstown
Free lunch and childcare will be provided. Click here to register for the retreat.
Email Jenna Mattern at jmattern@CatholicReview.org
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