March 28th was a momentous day. I am sure it will be remembered for many reasons. For those interested in world news, the search for the missing plane continued in the Indian Ocean; for those interested in Entertainment news, the controversial movie, “Noah” opened in theaters nationwide; for those interested in medical news, the U.S. Government reported Autism is now diagnosed in 1 in 68 children; and for those interested in mental health issues in the church, there was The Gathering on Mental Health and the church.
I have a feeling this last news could be the most transformative for the church, both universal and local.
I was not able to attend since my son arrived home for his Spring Break on Friday. But I was able to listen online to many of the speakers and was encouraged at the open, honest, transparent, Biblical conversation taking place.
If your family is touched by mental health challenges, I would encourage you to take some time in the coming weeks to listen to the various speakers.
If you are a church leader seeking ways to minister to those living with various hidden disabilities, I would encourage you to listen as well.
I am convinced this is the beginning of something truly great.
There were a number of key articles that came out in recent days by Christianity Today. Check out this interview by Kay Warren on “A Year of Grieving Dangerously” and this one asking the question, “Can Churches Separate Mental Illness and Shame?”
Mark this day on your calendar my friends. Let’s make this an important beginning for those families touched by hidden disabilities, specifically those living with mental health challenges.
As Pastor Warren said in his remarks that evening, “I’m not o.k. and you’re not o.k. But that’s o.k. because God makes us o.k.”
May our brokenness reflect His beauty, no matter the brokenness.
Warmly yours,
Shannon
Shannon Royce
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