A note from Keith
25 June 2010
Dear Friends,
In these days, there is a wider recognition of the effects of mental illness on many in our community. Our recent Wesley Mission research indicates that perhaps 25 per cent of Australians suffer from some form of mental health problem. The research further indicates that two-thirds have indirect experience of mental illness and that overall 7 in 10 Australians are affected, directly or indirectly, by mental illness. This area of public health has often been ignored or put into the 'too hard' basket.
In the light of these findings and following the launch of our Report, Keeping minds well: Mental health is everybody's business, it is encouraging to see the research being taken seriously in the wider community. For Wesley Mission, this is not simply an exploration for marketing purposes, it is central to our whole Christian vision for our community. In the recently published Wesley Impact! there are stories which point us in the direction of good news. We are called not only to have an understanding of these issues, but also to create a compassionate atmosphere in which we can see the healing power of God most effectively at work.
There are many different kinds of people who care for the mentally ill. I have in mind family and friends, as well as staff and volunteers of caring organisations such as Wesley Mission… all who journey alongside those who suffer. For many there seems to be no escape from feelings of helplessness, but care takes on many forms and needs to be exercised with sensitivity and understanding.
I recently quoted Jean Vanier, the Canadian philosopher and founder of L'Arche, an international organisation that has created communities across the world to help people with developmental difficulties and those who assist them in sharing life together. He wrote some helpful words, which I commend to you:
"We can all walk together in hope;
celebrating that we are loved in our brokenness,
helping each other,
growing in trust … we believe that Jesus has called us together.
It is where we belong
and are called to grow and serve."
We must be involved in the public conversation to ensure that stigma in relation to mental health is addressed at all levels of society. Our overriding sense of purpose is gained from the fact that God's gift is one of positive acceptance and peace.
Warmly yours
Rev Dr Keith Garner
Superintendent, Wesley Mission
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