Catholic and Orthodox Christians united at St Mark Coptic Catholic Church, Prospect, on 26 October for the Unite Our Voices for Mental Health concert; the fifth annual 1 in Christ event. 1 in Christ is an initiative of the iMelkite young adults to bring Christians together over a social theme.
Organiser Mark Scotto Di Perta said that “We desired a night to break mental health stigma, listen to testimonies from the faithful who have struggled and offer support to all, “he said.
“Suicide is the leading cause of death for Australians aged 15-34- it’s tragic. We just don’t talk about it enough.”
The concert included the St Mark Choir from the Coptic Catholics, St Rita Youth Choir from the Melkite Catholics, Psalm 34 from the Coptic Orthodox, Momentum Band from the Maronite Catholics, as well as singing from Cosima De Vito, Roman Catholic and former Australian Idol contestant.
“It is critical that Christian faithful unite their voices on behalf of those living with health challenges, and that includes the entire range of mental health issues,” Bishop Robert Rabbat of the Melkite Catholic Church said.
Participant Daniel Nour said as a young Eastern Catholic he had seen the impact mental illness on his friends:
“But the hope of the Gospel is that there is no challenge or darkness which the resurrection cannot overcome.”
If you are struggling with mental health or know someone call lifeline on 13 11 14 and visit beyondblue.org.au
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