Diocesan Leadership Meeting: Mental Wellness Ministry and Belonging

Wed, 10/01/2025 - 2:00pm EDT to 3:30pm

Mental Wellness Ministry is a growing outreach ministry in the Archdiocese of Cincinnati that follows the steps of Missionary Discipleship to walk with persons experiencing mental health challenges and create faith communities free from the stigma that is often associated with mental illness. This ministry educates parish leaders, clergy, staff, and parents on how to assist someone experiencing an immediate mental health challenge through Mental Health First Aid offerings, materials, support, and resources. Learn how the program grew from an abstract vision to a thriving ministry.

Mental Illness

Diocese/ Parishes

Diocese/ Parishes - What to Do for Disability Ministry

Lisa Averion

Associate Director, Office for Persons with Disabilities, Archdiocese of Cincinnati

Since July 2022 Lisa has been working closely with Families of Parishes to build awareness of the needs of families who have children and adults with disabilities. Lisa seeks to educate clergy, catechists, seminarians, and the community on why it is necessary to provide accommodations and create a culture of belonging for all. She earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Elementary Education from Franciscan University, Steubenville, and a Master's degree in Education Administration from Ohio University, Athens. Lisa was a university instructor and curriculum developer for 23 years. She is married to her husband, David, and has five children. Four of her five children have a disability which propelled her into being a staunch advocate. Three of her adult children have juvenile-onset macular degeneration called Stargardt's Disease which has left them legally blind (visual acuity 20/400) and her younger daughter has Down syndrome.

Diocesan Leadership Meeting: Mental Wellness Ministry and Belonging

Lisa Averion

National Catholic
Partnership on Disability

Advancing the Meaningful Participation
of Persons with Disabilities in Church and Society