19 Jun 2025, 13:23Alexander Owusu Ansah
Churches Leads Mental Health Awareness Drive
Leeds New Generation, Scarborough, and York Seventh-day Adventist Churches recently held a week-long initiative titled Hope for Mental Health, aimed at educating members and the wider community on the challenges and impact of mental health.
Running from the May 4th to 10th, the programme was facilitated by Chaplain Greg Davids and engaged around 150 participants through its online platforms and on the final day, it saw over 200 attendees gather in person for practical insights into mental wellbeing.
“We’ve observed how isolation has impacted mental health in our communities,” said Pastor Fredrick Nti-Mensah, the pastor for the district of churches. “Our goal is not only to share the gospel but also to provide comfort and meaningful support.” The programme underscored the importance of healthy relationships in maintaining mental wellness, a particularly relevant theme in the wake of prolonged social disconnection.
Each session explored how friendships influence mental health. Chaplain Davids shared evidence-based strategies, enriched with spiritual principles, while interactive exercises helped attendees assess their personal circles and develop healthier boundaries.
On the final day, the focus turned to Jesus Christ as the ultimate Friend and Comforter. Chaplain Davids’ sermon highlighted Christ’s compassion and how faith in Him offers peace amid anxiety and emotional strain.
Attendees like Wendy Ansah from Leeds New Generation expressed gratitude for the insights gained: “I never realised how my choice of friends was affecting my mental state. This week has given me practical tools to nurture positive relationships.” Many others echoed similar sentiments, sharing testimonies of restored hope and deeper connection with Christ.
The programme concluded on Sabbath 10th May with a message pointing to Christ’s role in healing the mind and heart. “Jesus demonstrated the perfect friendship model, one that heals our mental well-being,” said Chaplain Davids.
During the service, 13 individuals committed their lives to Jesus through baptism. These included members from the three churches that organised the Hope for Mental Health event, as well as eight from their sister church, Leeds Central Seventh-day Adventist Church.
This impactful initiative not only fostered stronger community ties but also reinforced the church’s dedication to holistic health, blending mental health awareness with spiritual encouragement.
Leeds New Generation, Scarborough, and York Seventh-day Adventist Churches recently held a week-long initiative titled Hope for Mental Health, aimed at educating members and the wider community on the challenges and impact of mental health.
Running from the May 4th to 10th, the programme was facilitated by Chaplain Greg Davids and engaged around 150 participants through its online platforms and on the final day, it saw over 200 attendees gather in person for practical insights into mental wellbeing.
“We’ve observed how isolation has impacted mental health in our communities,” said Pastor Fredrick Nti-Mensah, the pastor for the district of churches. “Our goal is not only to share the gospel but also to provide comfort and meaningful support.” The programme underscored the importance of healthy relationships in maintaining mental wellness, a particularly relevant theme in the wake of prolonged social disconnection.
Each session explored how friendships influence mental health. Chaplain Davids shared evidence-based strategies, enriched with spiritual principles, while interactive exercises helped attendees assess their personal circles and develop healthier boundaries.
On the final day, the focus turned to Jesus Christ as the ultimate Friend and Comforter. Chaplain Davids’ sermon highlighted Christ’s compassion and how faith in Him offers peace amid anxiety and emotional strain.
Attendees like Wendy Ansah from Leeds New Generation expressed gratitude for the insights gained: “I never realised how my choice of friends was affecting my mental state. This week has given me practical tools to nurture positive relationships.” Many others echoed similar sentiments, sharing testimonies of restored hope and deeper connection with Christ.
The programme concluded on Sabbath 10th May with a message pointing to Christ’s role in healing the mind and heart. “Jesus demonstrated the perfect friendship model, one that heals our mental well-being,” said Chaplain Davids.
During the service, 13 individuals committed their lives to Jesus through baptism. These included members from the three churches that organised the Hope for Mental Health event, as well as eight from their sister church, Leeds Central Seventh-day Adventist Church.
This impactful initiative not only fostered stronger community ties but also reinforced the church’s dedication to holistic health, blending mental health awareness with spiritual encouragement.
