Social media is renowned for publicising stories without the total context, leaving watchers or readers without the full story. We often, wrongly, jump to conclusions.
Recently, a video was circulated of a young man being ‘baptised’ in a bath following the instructions of two older men.
The video shows the man baptising the younger man and says “I am baptising you in the name of the father, son and the holy spirit.”
The video, posted on social media, gained controversy and rallied up hate filled comments aimed at the men involved.
Soon after the video was posted, it was revealed that the young man being ‘baptised’ was suffering from mental health problems. It was clear from the video that the young man was suffering with mental health issues, yet the public was soon to criticise and abuse him.
This has lead to the Bradford based organisation Sharing Voices to offer free mental health training to Imams on the 26th of January 2019. This will equip imams to support those in need who may be a part of their Mosque congregation.
Imams may be aware of people in their congregation facing mental health issues, but are unaware of how to offer them support. Mental health training is therefore essential for imams and faith leaders alike. The training offered by Sharing Voices is sought to understand how both SVB and mental health services could best engage with and support the Muslim community to identify mental health needs and access appropriate services.
The training will take place at Sharing Voices Bradford, 10 Mornington Villas, Bradford, BD8 7HB on Saturday 26th January 2019 (10am-2pm) and will be delivered by a qualified Muslim Psychologist who has many years of experience in the field. Spaces are limited, if anyone knows of any Imams who would be interested in attending the course please ask them to contact Sharing Voices on info@sharingvoices.org.uk or 01274 731166.
