As a former psychiatric nurse, the meeting between Jesus and Legion leading to Legion’s healing and restoration has always had a profound impact upon me. Years later I feel I am still learning from Jesus, still wanting to sit at the feet of the Master.

This encounter is framed within the context of demonic possession, a subject which the writer of this Gospel seems to be particularly interested in. We may wish to frame this encounter within the context of complex mental illness and, in this context, there would be a variety of diagnostic interpretations; whatever language we choose, the raw pain of Legion is tangible.

More important than where we place or even understand this story, is our own pastoral response to those living with complex needs.

Legion’s situation also has the added complication of social isolation. How long has it been since this man felt the comfort of human touch? Previously he has been restrained with shackles and chains, but due to his personal body strength he has broken free. Society has placed him out of sight due to fear of possible violence. He has been excommunicated. Frequently he cries out in pain, frequently he self-harms. Legion’s loss is profound.

And yet ... as soon as Jesus steps out of the boat, we are told Legion is immediately drawn to him. Legion, who is perceived by so many as a threat, who we are blatantly told cannot be subdued, runs to Jesus and bows down before him. Many of those suffering in similar ways throughout Jesus’ ministry are thus drawn to Christ and, like Legion, name him as the Son of God. It is almost as if their profound suffering enables them to see Jesus more clearly and to recognise Christ’s ministry and ultimate suffering at a more profound level. (This is not some romantic notion, it is backed up by scripture here and in many places.)

In a similar way, many with complex needs today, perhaps because of their profound suffering, have an innate awareness of the identity of Jesus. (This is in no way meant to trivialise their pain.)

So, it is with the profoundest of insight and the deepest of tenderness that Jesus asks, ‘What is your name?’ To ask someone their name is to acknowledge their humanity, worth and individuality. The man replies, ‘Legion for we are many.’ Surely this could not have been the man’s original name? Is it not more a reflection of his state of mind? This man is so damaged as an individual, that he appears to have lost the essence of his unique personal identity.

Towards the end of this encounter, we are told that the man, who has previously been so damaged in body, mind, and spirit, is now found sitting clothed and in his right mind. This is not without irony: Jesus himself is now excommunicated and asked to leave the region, and Legion is sent home to his family. What a story he has to tell, and it appears by all accounts he wastes no time telling it.

The subject of how we care as a society for those with mental health issues and their loved ones, continues to be much debated. The Church has a significant role to play in promoting both acceptance and inclusion.

Recently, it has been a privilege to witness sensitive care being provided, both in the context of worship and in the provision of the Warm Space, in this church.

A good number of individuals with complex needs do indeed cross our threshold. Working together in teams, making sure our safeguarding training is up to date, and improving our practice by actively seeking out appropriate training such as the Mental Health First Aid Certificate, we shall further enrich what we are able
to offer.

As Christians our ultimate role model is of course Jesus. In this encounter with Legion, we see the miracle of both healing and restoration.

In life there are many situations that we simply cannot fix, but in being truly present to another in their need, asking their name and wanting to hear their story, we hopefully internalise something of what we witnessed in today’s Gospel reading.

May we all continue to learn from the depth of this encounter. With the right training and provisions in place, complexity of need should not be a barrier to inclusion within the family of God.