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By Flavia Oyuu, Communications Office, Lira Diocese
Pope Leo XIV has dedicated his prayer intention for October 2026 to mental health ministry, calling on the Catholic Church to become a welcoming and safe place for people experiencing mental health challenges.
Through his monthly “Pray with the Pope” video, Pope Leo invited Catholics and people of good will to pray for those living with mental health conditions and for the families, professionals and volunteers who accompany them.
The Pope’s Worldwide Prayer Network, which produces the monthly prayer intention, says the October intention seeks to encourage the Church to listen without judging and to accompany people without stigma or exclusion.
In his prayer, Pope Leo remembered people who suffer from anxiety, depression and other mental health conditions, particularly those who experience their struggles in silence.
Holding an image of St. Dymphna, traditionally regarded as a patron saint of people suffering from mental disorders and of mental health professionals, the Pope prayed that those experiencing mental health challenges may find dignity, hope and compassionate support.
He also asked forgiveness for occasions when Christians have contributed to stigma and discrimination by ignoring or distancing themselves from people experiencing mental illness.
“Let the Church be an open house,” the Pope prayed, asking that Christian communities become spaces where everyone has a place and where people are accompanied rather than excluded, listened to without judgement and approached without fear.
Praying for those who care for others
Pope Leo also placed before God those who care for people experiencing mental health difficulties, including health professionals, family members and volunteers.
He prayed for strength and compassion for those who accompany people through their struggles, while urging the Church to integrate mental health care more fully into the life and mission of Christian communities.
The International Director of the Pope’s Worldwide Prayer Network, Fr. Cristóbal Fones, said many people experiencing mental illness continue to face judgement and misunderstanding and therefore struggle to speak openly about their experiences.
He encouraged Catholics to use the month of October to pray for people living with mental health conditions as well as those who support and care for them.
According to information accompanying the Pope’s prayer intention, about one in seven people worldwide lives with a mental health condition, with many experiencing stigma and isolation.
The Pope’s Worldwide Prayer Network also highlighted the work already being done by Catholic mental health ministries, universities, parishes and support groups in accompanying people affected by mental health challenges and their families.
Pope Leo’s October prayer intention calls on the wider Church to strengthen this ministry by promoting greater understanding, compassion and inclusion for people living with mental health conditions.
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