Why? 

This is a question I ask myself frequently. Why have this office? What is the goal?

I am working on it. 

The answer that I have today is this:

I have been in ministry for a long time. I started out as a volunteer in the Children, Youth, and Family programming. That eventually moved to a leadership role. When I decided to go to seminary, I did not know how my roles would/wouldn’t change . . . but I moved forward with faith that this was a good choice. There were many growing pains throughout the years as I struggled to find my spot, and just when I thought I did . . . things fell apart and I found myself in a place of rebirth. 

Jesus teaches us to be still, reflective, and intentional. 

As I leaned into the stillness of the absence of a ministry role, I spent time listening and feeling and wondering. My curiosity turned to excitement for what the future of the family resource center could be. 

But . . . it is still a work in progress and I hope that it always is. As we move into the rebirth of spring . . . out of the cold and dormancy of winter . . . it seemed like a good time to reflect on this topic.

I have learned many things in the years I have been involved in ministry. One of those things, which comes both through research and anecdotally through experience, is that we were created to be in community with each other. The mental health benefits of being connected and belonging are clear. 

I see the presence of a mental health professional within the church as a benefit. I have training beyond what pastors do to attend to the mental health needs of individuals and can help in ways that pastors may be under-resourced. However, being in the church building, allows me to work with pastors when appropriate and needed. I am also trained to create a space of safety so people can feel open to vulnerability and growth. I am also very connected to the mental health community and enjoy helping people find the needed resources . . . whether that is finding the “right” therapist for them, navigating systems to get the help needed, or helping people find necessary crisis resources. 

So, for now, my goal for the family resource center is to create a space that can help people grow spiritually by attending to both spiritual and mental health needs. I hope to do this by engaging people in community that is focused on supporting each other. I hope to do all of that by being a presence in the community for any individual support needed. I would also like to offer groups, other educational opportunities, and retreats. 

I am also open to any other thoughts and suggestions!

I look forward to serving this congregation and community.