Source: Assembly of Orthodox Canonical Bishops of the USA
WHAT IS PEACE OF MIND?
Peace of Mind is a composite training program on mental health crisis response that includes a clinically-based course (Mental Health First AidTM, owned by the National Council for Mental Wellbeing) which is augmented by a theologically-based presentation developed by the Assembly of Bishops.
PROGRAM OBJECTIVES
This in-person event is designed to support and equip Orthodox Christian clergy and ministry leaders in:
- appropriately identifying, understanding, responding, and referring mental health concerns as they arise in the parish
- exploring the connection between Orthodox Christian anthropology, pastoral care, and mental health care
- cultivating ongoing conversations about mental wellness within the parish and the greater Orthodox Christian community
OUR VISION
For Peace of Mind training to become standard across all jurisdictions, parishes, and seminaries in order to uphold exceptional pastoral care within Orthodox Christian communities in the United States of America.
READY TO HOST A PEACE OF MIND EVENT?
Follow this detailed checklist to host a Peace of Mind event for clergy and ministry leaders in your area. The steps at a glance are:
STEP ONE
Contact the AoB at mentalhealth@assemblyofbishops.org about 6-8 weeks in advance of your ideal event date. Include your name, phone number, email address, jurisdiction, and location.
STEP TWO
Collaborate with local Orthodox institutions to select an event package, secure funding, and determine potential host sites and event dates.
STEP THREE
Send three potential dates and their locations to the AoB at least 4-6 weeks in advance.
STEP FOUR
Book your Peace of Mind event package to secure your event date, location, and Facilitator(s).
STEP FIVE
Market your event locally using personalized invitations and flyers from the AoB.
STEP SIX
Confirm registration for 10-30 participants 2 weeks prior to your event.
STEP SEVEN
Encourage your participants to complete the required online coursework prior to the Peace of Mind event.
STEP EIGHT
Confirm details regarding facility setup, supplies, and lunch.
STEP NINE
Get trained in Peace of Mind!
“A healthy mind, body, and soul are imperatives for the salvation of the human person. The Assembly of Bishops is pleased to offer this opportunity for our priests and lay leaders to be properly trained in mental health awareness and response. The faithful in this country deserve our support!”
– Archbishop Elpidophoros