In a video released on October 1 by the  Pope’s Worldwide Prayer Network , the Holy Father pointed out that behind the “old labels” of “melancholy, bad temper, confusion of the senses,” what “lies hidden” is “a deep and silent suffering, not only of those who suffer from mental health disorders but also of their loved ones and communities.”

Below we publish the text of the video message “Pray with the Pope” with the prayer intention for the month of October

In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.

God of life,

You know the innermost parts of our hearts,

the lights and shadows that dwell within us,

the silent wounds that sometimes no one sees.

Today we introduce you to our brothers and sisters

who face difficulties with their mental health,

who suffer in solitude with anxiety, depression, or any other mental illness.

You call them by name, tenderly,

and in You they find dignity and hope.

Forgive us for the times we have looked the other way,

fueling stigma and discrimination

towards people with mental illnesses.

Make your church an open house,

a safe space where everyone has a place,

a community that supports and does not exclude,

who listens without judging and approaches without fear.

We pray, Lord, for those who care:

professionals, family members, volunteers,

men and women who with patience and love

They build bridges of understanding and comfort.

Give them strength and compassion to endure.

Send your Spirit upon us,

so that we learn to embrace and integrate mental health care

in the life and mission of our communities and of the whole Church,

and so we may become a living sign of your mercy,

that never abandons and always restores.

Amen.

Pray with the Pope – For mental health pastoral care