This edition explores how the relationship between religious leaders and mental health experts has changed in recent years.

Milesh Hamlai helped increase access to and use of medical treatments for mental illness in Ahmedabad, India, by creating the Dava and Dua Program, which seeks to bridge the gap between modern medicine and faith healing.

Laura Turner is a Christian writer and journalist who frequently explores the intersection of religion and mental health.

Gary Sibcy is a licensed clinical psychologist and professor of counselor education at Liberty University. He has spoken about how pastors can prepare to help congregants experiencing a mental health crisis.

The Rev. Barbara F. Meyers leads mental health ministry for Mission Peak Unitarian Universalist Congregation in Fremont, California.

Warren Kinghorn studies the role faith communities play in responding to mental illness. He is an associate research professor of pastoral and moral theology at Duke Divinity School and an associate professor of psychiatry at Duke University Medical Center.

Ron Hawkins is a member of the executive advisory board for the American Association of Christian Counselors.

The Rev. Chip Edens is rector of Christ Episcopal Church in Charlotte, North Carolina. After his church community experienced six suicides in five years, Edens and other congregational leaders decided in 2019 to hire a wellness director.

Archbishop Paul Gallagher is the Holy See’s secretary for relations with states. He oversees the Catholic Church’s relationships with government leaders. Arrange an interview with him through the Holy See Press Office.