A comprehensive survey by the Catholic Union of Great Britain has revealed profound mental health impacts due to the closure of churches during the COVID-19 pandemic. This landmark study, involving nearly 1,000 UK Catholics, highlights the significant role that faith and church attendance play in maintaining mental and spiritual well-being.
The study’s findings suggest that a staggering 62% of respondents experienced a decline in mental health directly linked to their inability to attend Mass. Baroness Hollins of Wimbledon, Catholic Union president and former president of the Royal College of Psychiatrists, described these results as “shocking” and “distressing,” emphasizing the unforeseen consequences of church closures.
The survey reveals a significant disconnect between policy-making and the public’s faith needs. A vast majority, 93%, felt that their faith was sidelined in decision-making processes, with 89% finding the varying regional restrictions on churches unhelpful. Only a quarter of those surveyed agreed with the initial decision to close churches.
Despite these challenges, the resilience of the Catholic community is evident. Post-pandemic, the rate of church attendance has largely normalized, with only 10% attending less frequently.
These findings underscore the vital role of the church in public life and the need for more nuanced approaches in future crises. As Baroness Hollins asserts, “The increase in the number of people feeling lonely or depressed as a direct consequence of the closures is particularly shocking… Places of worship should never be forced to close again.”
This survey not only sheds light on the pandemic’s impact but also sets a precedent for considering faith and spiritual well-being in future policy decisions.
Let’s pray for mental health!
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Editorial credit: Pasquale Senatore / Shutterstock.com | Survey source
