By Nancy Virden (c)2021

The pandemic has forced some intense changes in our lives, and also in our churches. We have seen more people anxious, depressed, isolated, and struggling than at any time in recent history. We are long overdue for church involvement in this fight for mental health.

Stigma is, thankfully, taking a hit. As more celebrities and church leaders openly admit their mental health challenges, the world becomes a little more emotionally safe. The punch stigma received in the last 12 months is meaningful but like a stubbed toe. Our collective pain has drawn attention to the need for more and better mental health care, greater access, and alternative measures for ministries. Stigma is still humungous and dangerous, though. My hope is that this momentum toward awareness will continue.

One ministry for churches deserves more press. Grace Alliance helps churches by providing free training, curriculum (at a cost), and an “easy” entrance into effective ministry to those who struggle with mental and emotional needs and disorders.

I have been leading a Grace Alliance group at my church for 4 months. They have several curriculum choices; my group is using Living Grace, a resiliency workbook for adults. It is truly remarkable to see people receive the help they need with this practical, scientific, and Bible-based supplement to professional mental health care.

Each group runs for 16 weeks. If you are a church leader, someone interested in seeing this in your church, or one who struggles and would like to have more support from your church, then please go to the website and take a look. I highly recommend. Grace Alliance website For church leaders only

Quoting Joe Padilla, co-founder of Grace Alliance, “Grace Changes Everything.” I’ve experienced this, seen it, and know it is true. -COMMENTS WELCOME

Today’s Helpful Word

2 Thessalonians 2:16-17 niv

May our Lord Jesus Christ himself and God our Father, who loved us and by his grace gave us eternal encouragement and good hope, encourage your hearts and strengthen you in every good deed and word.

Always the Fight Ministries (ATFM) has been displaying compassion for those fighting mental illness, addiction, or abuse since 2012. Nancy is the founder and voice of ATFM and openly shares her emotional resurrection from despair.

NOTE: I am not a doctor or a mental health professional, and speak only from personal experiences and observations. In no way is this website intended to substitute for professional mental or behavioral health care.

If you are feeling suicidal, or concerned about someone who is, in the U.S. call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline 1-800-273-TALK (8255), or for a list of international suicide hotlines, go here.

If you are suicidal with a plan, immediately call 911 in the U.S. or go to your nearest emergency room. In the EU call 112. (For other international emergency numbers, go here ). Hope and help are yours!

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