MANILA, Philippines — A Cardinal urged Filipino priests to prioritize their mental health, citing a growing number of priests experiencing depression and anxiety and stressing the need for greater awareness and support within the Church.
Speaking during the Chrism Mass at the Manila Cathedral on Maundy Thursday—where priests from across the archdiocese gather to renew their commitment to service and their promises—Advincula said 18 percent, or 1 in 5, priests are were experiencing psychological distress or emotional burden.
“This is a concern we cannot ignore anymore,” Advincula said.
