Kuya Kim accepts priest's apology after callout: 'I know you mean well'

Trigger warning: This article mentions depression. Please be advised.

Kim Atienza has accepted the apology of a Catholic priest after calling out his remarks made during a homily about depression.

In a Facebook post, Kuya Kim responded to Rev. Fr. Jowel Jomarsus P. Gatus' public apology, saying he appreciated the priest's statement and hoped the conversation would help raise awareness.

"Thank you so much for the post and your apology. It is well taken. Your statement opened a conversation that is timely and urgent. Talking about it now saves young lives," Kuya Kim wrote.

He also expressed sympathy for those who may have been affected by the discussion.

"I am sorry as well that some took it personally because they themselves are depressed or have lost loved ones because of depression. I know you mean well. Take care Father and all the best," he added.

The exchange stemmed from a homily in which Fr. Gatus said, "Ang daming taong may sakit sa ospital na lumalaban sa hamon ng buhay. Ikaw na pagkalusog-lusog na-de-depress."

Kuya Kim, who is a mental health advocate, responded by emphasizing that depression is a legitimate medical condition.

"Depression is a sickness, a medical condition. Ang taong may mental illness ay lumalaban sa hamon ng buhay at ayaw magpa-ospital dahil sa ganitong stigma, sa ganitong pag-iisip, Father," he wrote.

Fr. Gatus later issued a lengthy apology in the comments section, saying he never intended to hurt Kuya Kim, his family, or those living with depression.

"I realize now that my words may have sounded as if I was diminishing a pain that is very real. For that, I sincerely ask for your forgiveness," the priest wrote.

He explained that his intention was to encourage people to hold on to hope despite life's challenges, but acknowledged that depression "is not simply a matter of choosing to be grateful or choosing to be strong."

The priest also extended his condolences to Kuya Kim and his family, saying no parent should have to endure the loss of a child, and vowed to preach "with greater compassion and sensitivity" moving forward.

As a mental health advocate, Kuya Kim previously offered help to a netizen dealing with mental health issues.

He also earned a certificate as a mental wellness facilitator after completing a mental health training program.

The Kapuso host is still grieving his youngest daughter, Emman, who passed away at the age of 19 last October. He has been advocating for kindness in honor of her memory since then.

—Jade Veronique Yap/JCB, GMA News