Mental illness focus for World Day of the Sick in Australia

Published: 2006-01-06

PERTH, Australia (CNS) -- World Day of the Sick is an opportunity to listen to those affected by mental health disorders, mental health professionals and their caregivers, said the archbishop of Adelaide, Australia. World Day of the Sick, to be held in Adelaide Feb. 11, is also an opportunity to express solidarity with and commit to "practical and ongoing action so that the dignity of those with mental illness is better recognized, respected and promoted," Adelaide Archbishop Philip Wilson said in a pastoral letter released Jan. 6. The archbishop said the event will gather religious leaders and health experts Feb.9-11 for a conference with "expert presenters," a pastoral day that focuses on the "practical and pastoral aspects" of the church's response to mental illness and a liturgical celebration in St. Francis Xavier Cathedral. Cardinal Javier Lozano Barragan, head of the Pontifical Council for Health Care Ministry, will represent Pope Benedict XVI at the event.

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