WASHINGTON — Pastor Reina Olmeda emphasized the importance of church leaders embracing their emotions, pointing to Jesus’ human vulnerabilities as a model for deepening their connection with the Holy Spirit and effectively guiding their congregations during a talk about mental health struggles at the National Hispanic Christian Leadership Conference.
NHCLC introduced its Mental Health Initiative on Tuesday, marking the first national mental health program developed and led by Latino Evangelicals. This initiative, part of the organization’s Center for Ministerial Health, is directed by Olmeda, who serves as co-pastor of Transformation Church, previously 3rd Day Worship Center, alongside her husband, the Rev. Charles Olmeda, in Allentown, Pennsylvania.
Olmeda acknowledged the prevalence of anxiety, depression and discouragement, noting that spiritual leaders aren’t exempt from these struggles. She advocated for reducing the “stigma” surrounding mental health and equipping churches with resources to support their communities.
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