Mental Health and Our Shared Community
A Talk on Faith, Compassion, and Collective Care
In today’s fast-paced world, mental health challenges are increasingly affecting individuals and families. Recognizing the importance of emotional and spiritual well-being, the Family Life Mental Health Ministry of Good Shepherd Church, Setapak organized a special talk titled “Mental Health and Our Shared Community: A Talk on Faith, Compassion, and Collective Care.”
The session, which took place on 15 February 2026, was delivered by Sis. Christine Maryanna Gabriel, a licensed marriage and family therapist, lecturer, and mental health advocate. She shared valuable insights on how faith communities can become places of compassion, understanding, and support for those experiencing mental health struggles.
The Church has always been called to be a place of refuge, where individuals can find comfort, encouragement, and healing. The talk explored how members of the community can better care for one another through empathy, faith, and meaningful relationships.
An estimated 70 participants attended the session and were encouraged to reflect on how small acts of kindness and attentive listening can make a significant difference in someone’s mental and emotional journey—especially during this season of Lent.
Mental Health Awareness Workshop
Continuing the conversation on mental wellness, a Mental Health Awareness Workshop was held on 28 February 2026, also led by Sis. Christine Gabriel.
This interactive workshop, attended by about 35 participants, aimed to deepen understanding of mental health, relationships, and the healing power of supportive communities—especially among youth and young adults.
The workshop theme was inspired by the Scripture:
“For where two or three are gathered in my name, there am I in the midst of them.”
— Matthew 18:20
Participants were guided through meaningful discussions on emotional well-being, healthy relationships, and ways to seek and offer support within a faith community. They also learned practical ways to recognize mental health challenges and respond with compassion and understanding.
A Community of Care
Both events highlight an important message: mental health is not a journey meant to be faced alone. Through faith, friendship, and collective care, communities can become powerful spaces of healing and hope.
Participants from various language groups and ministries took part in the sessions. In particular, the Catholic Charismatic Renewal and the Youth Team led the community in Praise and Worship for the sessions. Words of encouragement and motivation were also shared by the parish priest, Rev. Fr. Mitchel Anthony Joseph, reflecting the Church’s commitment to inclusivity and shared support.
The togetherness shown by the community—coming together to learn, listen, and support one another—demonstrated a shared desire to build a culture of compassion and care.
Following the sessions, participants were invited for fellowship, providing an opportunity to build deeper connections within the community.
Stay tuned for our upcoming sessions which will be focused on the teenagers and youth.
Thank you and God bless.
Dr. Mark David & Karoline Thiba
Family Life Mental Health Ministry
Good Shepherd Church
Setapak, Kuala Lumpur