Care for the mentally disabled

His Holiness Pope Shenouda III speaks about caring for the mentally retarded and the necessity of the church and society’s compassion toward them, affirming that they are human beings who must be given care.

The need for a tender heart
His Holiness Pope Shenouda III affirms that caring for these cases requires tender hearts; without tenderness a person cannot visit a prisoner or care for a mentally ill person or a handicapped person.

Respecting their dignity and not ostracizing them
He stresses that the most important psychological goal is that these people should not feel that they are odd or ostracized from society, and that their treatment must preserve their human dignity.

Note about materials and stories
He points out that some religious books and illustrations present faces in a way that may give an impression of difference, and urges that they be presented in a way that does not wound their psyche.

Role of churches and modern ministry
His Holiness Pope Shenouda III notes that the churches have begun to pay attention to this ministry; today they care for the disabled, the imprisoned, and the mentally retarded under the title “care of special cases.”

Components of integrated care
The required care is not only material but includes psychological, educational, social, and spiritual aspects, while maintaining respect and not humiliating.

Conclusion and a call to action
His Holiness Pope Shenouda III calls for continued awareness by churches and society and for providing tender and respectful care to those in special cases, considering that a spiritual and human duty.

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