And God has appointed in the church first apostles, second prophets, third teachers, then miracle workers, healers, helpers…..I Corinthians 12:28

I have my list of stresses and you have one also. Many of the stressors now come from the coronavirus pandemic. Other issues may appear that are unrelated to masks, social distancing, hygiene, and staying home! Issues that might come up in any time in life, e.g. financial stress, employment challenges, interpersonal relationship struggles, health changes. What’s a person of faith to do when the going gets tough?

Reach out. Look for “healers and helpers.” And in some instances, trained professionals in counseling and therapy should be contacted. To that end, let me offer some resources that help and do so in confidentiality and privacy.

If stress or other factors are leading to undue anxiety or deepening depression or that range of emotions from sad to mad, and any are affecting family, work, or faith, consider seeking help. And it might not be you under duress but it could be a family member, friend or coworker.

I can recommend Insight Counseling Center which is located in offices in First Baptist Murfreesboro, as I have benefitted from a pastoral counselor there. I personally know two therapists in Nashville who are available if one wanted to have even more privacy outside our community. And all three are currently providing on line or phone counseling.

Feel free to contact me for counsel, for information on any of the above or other possible resources. Look for the “healers and helpers.” They are there! And don’t forget: you can be a helper and healer to someone else as well! Lending an ear and then perhaps pointing in a direction for further help.

If you have any joys or concerns please email them to me at pastor-barry@kedronumc.org

Please remember your tithes and offerings. They can be sent to Naomi Lee.

We will live stream on Sunday at 11 am. Bookmark the link https://www.facebook.com/KedronUMC/

Blessings in these unusual times!

Pastor Barry