Metropolitan Veniamin of Minsk Leads Initiative to Train Clergy in Mental Health First Aid

With the blessing of Metropolitan Veniamin of Minsk and Zaslavsky, Patriarchal Exarch of All Belarus, the Belarusian Exarchate of the Russian Orthodox Church is implementing an educational project aimed at equipping clergy with foundational knowledge in psychiatry. This initiative responds to the increasing demand for pastoral support related to mental health within parishes.

Addressing Mental Health Needs in the Community

Recognizing that clergy members are often among the first points of contact for individuals experiencing mental health challenges, the “Fundamentals of Psychiatry for Clergy” project seeks to provide them with the tools to recognize warning signs and offer appropriate support. The course is designed to enhance their ability to navigate sensitive situations and guide parishioners toward professional help when necessary.

Collaboration with Belarusian State Medical University

The project is a collaborative effort between the Synodal Department for Church Charity and Social Service of the Belarusian Exarchate and the Belarusian State Medical University. This partnership ensures the curriculum is grounded in current medical understanding and best practices.

Upcoming Lecture: Dementia

The next lecture in the series, focusing on “Dementia,” is scheduled for March 23, 2026, at 15:00 in the assembly hall of the Minsk Theological Academy. Lectures are held monthly as part of the educational project.

Registration Information

Participation in the lecture requires preliminary electronic registration. Registration Link

About Metropolitan Veniamin

Metropolitan Veniamin (Vital Ivanavič Tupieka) has served as the Metropolitan of Minsk and as Patriarchal Exarch of the Belarusian Orthodox Church since 2020. He is the first Belarusian to hold this position. Born on September 16, 1968, in Luninets, Belarus, he graduated from the Minsk Theological Seminary and Academy and has been involved in theological education and monastic life since 1994. He was appointed dean of the Zhirovichy monastery in 2005. Wikipedia, Sofia42, Church.by, Pravminsk.by