“Often when you think you’re at the end of something, you’re at the beginning of something else.” – Fred Rogers
Walk along with the Deacons as we are at the beginning of something else. It is an exciting time in the life of the church as we explore, discuss and flesh out details of new initiatives; however, it can also be challenging. As part of this new focus, both the Prayer Shawl Ministry and the Knit Togethers, which formerly reported to Mission, will now move to the Deacons as their home base for reporting. With this change, Debbie Farrell will be the liaison for both these groups.
Also, while we will continue to serve a supportive role to the Pantry, we will be shifting our central focus to ministering to the needs of the congregation. With the rise of mental health issues, the Deacons are discussing the addition of a mental health ministry.
DID YOU KNOW: Youth depression rates have risen from 5.9% to 8.2% since 2012. Depression symptoms can impact performance in school and interfere with personal relationships.
DID YOU KNOW: Mental illnesses can affect people of any age, race, religion, or income. A mental illness is a medical condition that disrupts a person’s thinking, feeling, mood, and ability to relate to others and daily functioning.
DID YOU KNOW: Faith and community leaders are often the first point of contact when individuals and families face mental health problems or traumatic events.
As a possible first point of contact, a few members of the Deacons are enrolled in a certification course called Mental Health First Aid offered by The Alliance For Safe Kids. The program teaches an action plan to offer initial help to young people showing signs of a mental illness and connect them with the appropriate professional, peer, social or self-help program. It emphasizes the importance of early intervention and covers how to help an adolescent in crisis or experiencing a mental health challenge.
Please reach out to either Patrick Burns or Sue Caruso for further information on the program or the mental health initiative. We welcome your thoughts, needs, ideas and prayers so please feel free to reach out to any of the ministry leads as we travel together down this new road of change.
Diapers, School Supplies: Pam Darreff
Blood Drive, School Supplies: Wanda Diaz
Visitation: Christine Lazarus
Bereavement: Dana Mordue & Andy Torres
Cards: Nancy Paskin
Spiritual Care, Open Space Rep: Jean Post Winget
Transportation: Marty Scatola
Debbie Farrell, For the Deacons