Wednesday 24th February at 7.30pm. St. Michael’s Lecture by Br. Michael Jerome on the topic of “Christ, Christianity, and Mental Illness: Confronting Saneism in Society with a Crown of Thorns”

Content Warning: mental illness, suffering, depression.

The topic this month is mental illness, as well as “saneism” in society and the Church (the individual and institutional prejudice often encountered by those with diagnosed mental health disorders).  We welcome back Br. Michael Jerome O.P.A. who has previously addressed this topic in various churches and at the recent Churches Together in England conference.  He will be approaching this sensitive topic with compassionate frankness based in both personal, and pastoral, experience of the trials and hardships of people with mental health issues both inside the church and in the world in general.  His particular interest is in rediscovering the voice of those marginalised by this experience and recognising their gifting.

He will briefly plot the history of the relationship between Psychiatry and Church termed the war between “Couch and Pew”, and also look at some scriptural passages in this context.  This will be a hard-hitting topic, hence the content warning, but in an increasingly unhealthy culture it is becoming ever more vital that the church as a community is prepared to confront this question and some of the struggles that go with it so that we all become better equipped to share solidarity and celebrate with those who suffer from mental health difficulties.

After the talk there will be some Q&A time and light refreshments (Tea, coffee etc.).  We look forward to welcoming you to St. Michael’s.  Those of any faith or none are welcome as always.  Lectures are free, with voluntary donations welcome to cover costs. For further information, or to discuss disabled access, please contact stmichaelslectures@outlook.com