The Sanctuary Course
The Sanctuary Course provides churches and small groups with an accessible, compassionate, and evidence-based framework to talk openly about mental health. Designed by Sanctuary Mental Health Ministries, a Canadian Christian nonprofit, the course confronts stigma, equips participants with mental health vocabulary, and roots every session in Scripture and the real experiences of people living with mental health challenges.
The eight-week course explores essential topics—mental health, illness, stigma, recovery, companionship, caregiving, self-care, and reflection—through session videos, coursebook readings, and facilitated group discussion. Each session begins with a Psalm and includes insights from mental health experts, theologians, and Christian leaders. Key themes include the mental health continuum, the biopsychosocial-spiritual model, the role of faith communities in healing, and the theology of suffering, all presented in language accessible to non-experts.
What sets this resource apart is its tri-perspectival approach: psychological insights unpack the science of the mind, social reflection emphasizes community care, and theological grounding explores how God is present in mental health journeys. Films feature real voices of people with lived experience, and the discussion guide includes spiritual practices, art reflections, and journaling prompts. Designed to normalize mental health conversations in faith settings, the course has been used across denominations and geographies with overwhelmingly positive feedback.
Eight-session structure: Each includes readings, a video, discussion, and spiritual reflection
Integrated perspectives: Psychological, social, and theological frameworks
Flexible delivery: In-person or online, suitable for church groups, retreats, or clergy development
Multimedia support: Includes a coursebook, facilitator’s guide, podcast, and film transcripts
Lived experience emphasis: Stories from people navigating faith and mental health