Mental Health Talks Surge Within Catholic Church After Priest's Death

CEDAR RAPIDS, Iowa (KCRG) – Mental health issues often come with feelings of shame and stigma, prompting various religious groups to address these outdated perspectives. The Archdiocese of Dubuque intensified their efforts following the tragic suicide of a priest in November.

The Reverend Dennis Conway headed two congregations in Cedar Rapids—St. Wenceslaus and Immaculate Conception. He was just 33 years old.

Archbishop Thomas Zinkula stated in a public message, "According to communications around the time of his demise, Father Dennis undoubtedly experienced a severe mental health emergency."

The archbishop along with another priest who collaborated with Conway are currently discussing the shifts within the church regarding attitudes toward mental health. They also share how their beliefs have steered them through times of loss.

Rev. Aaron Junge and Conway completed their studies at Xavier Catholic High School in Cedar Rapids, graduating just one year apart. They maintained this link when Junge served as an assistant pastor at both Immaculate Conception and St. Wenceslaus churches, under Pastor Conway’s leadership.

"He dedicated himself entirely to these two parishes," Junge stated.

Following Conway’s suicide, Junge transitioned into the role of pastor, all while mourning and honoring his friend’s life.

I believe the initial impression people had of him stemmed from his remarkable intelligence," Junge stated. "He was an exceptionally brilliant individual who mastered six languages—three contemporary and three classical.

Informing about the passing in November to both the parish and the wider community was the responsibility of Archbishop Zinkula.

He mentioned that being considerate is crucial, as well as being open.

"The more we can simply be upfront and transparent instead of trying to conceal such matters, I believe it won't be beneficial in the long term," Zinkula stated.

There's a willingness to discuss mental health challenges that both society and the church have not consistently supported.

Thankfully, over the last few decades, there has been an increased understanding of psychology and the root causes of mental illnesses," the Archbishop stated. "In the past, there was greater emphasis on blaming people, and even the terminology we employed, often revolved around concepts of sin.

The Archdiocese of Dubuque is launching a fresh support initiative aimed at assisting parishioners who are struggling.

"Our entire diocese has recently established a mental health task force aimed at increasing awareness and providing education regarding the medical and mental health resources that are accessible," according to Zinkula.

Aspiring priests undergo psychological evaluations prior to joining the seminary. Additionally, Jung emphasizes the importance of maintaining mental health for clergy members, particularly following a personal bereavement.

"I've personally consulted a mental health specialist and also work with a spiritual director, who is essentially someone you meet with periodically—like a priest—to discuss your personal prayer life. In addition to this, I engage in these conversations monthly and share thoughts with friends," explained Father Junge.

Junge states that Conway’s passing has sparked more discussions around mental well-being, particularly among individuals pursuing spiritual careers.

The reality is that it sparked discussions about the general mental well-being of clergy members, which I see as God turning something deeply unfortunate into something positive.