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VANCOUVER-ROUSSIN Aug-30-2005 (240 words) With photo. xxxi
Vancouver archbishop to take break to be treated for depression
By Catholic News Service
VANCOUVER, British Columbia (CNS) -- Vancouver Archbishop Raymond Roussin will take a five- or six-month break from his pastoral duties to receive treatment for clinical depression.
In a letter released to the priests and faithful of the archdiocese, the archbishop said he was taking the time on the advice of his doctor, who anticipated a full recovery.
"Although this is a personal medical matter, I have decided to be frank with you in order to help remove some of the stigma that is often wrongly and unfortunately associated with depression. It is an illness and it is treatable," Archbishop Roussin said in his letter, dated Aug. 26.
"With your prayers to help me, I look forward to returning to work with new strength as soon as possible," he said.
Father Mark Hagemoen, vicar general of the archdiocese, said efforts were being made to ensure business would continue without interruption around the archdiocese. He said he anticipated some temporary changes and expansion of responsibilities of the archbishop's vicars, although the organizational structure of the archdiocese would remain the same.
Father Hagemoen said he hoped everyone in the archdiocese would understand the need to let the archbishop focus on his recovery over the next few months, and he asked that all business be directed to the appropriate vicars or curial departments.
Archbishop Roussin, 66, was installed in Vancouver in February 2004.
END
Copyright (c) 2005 Catholic News Service/USCCB. All rights reserved.
This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or otherwise distributed.
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