Ministry Within Wounds: A Practical Theological Ethic of Congregational Care to Address Maternal Mental Health

Abstract

This article offers a framework for a practical theological ethic of congregational care to address maternal mental well-being with lament at its core. Lament catalyzes solidarity with and action on behalf of those on the margins. This ethic will be useful in the ministries of the church which are instrumental in outreach to and meeting the needs of those within marginalized communities within and outside of the Anglican Communion. The framework for this practical ethic is based on Anglican theological ethics and the concept of moral repair, which allows us to attend to bonds of hope and trust that undergird moral relations. This framework can be used by local parishes to facilitate maternal mental well-being through spiritual accompaniment, advocacy and awareness of important health crises, and sustained resources to address health disparities.