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Coming from an era of deep family ties and mutual obligations of care, the writer’s Aunt Marge and Mother Curry could have told the Synod on the Family the cure for an epidemic of loneliness among us: we are to bear one another’s burdens.
Old friendships matter. They require time. They demand attention.
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When adjusting to a new situation, it’s tempting to look forward, not back, writes a United Methodist pastor. But it’s important to attend to those deep friendships that are the living connections between memories and dreams.
A pastor in South Carolina reflects on the deep friendships that enable us to embody the gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ together.
Jesus gives a clear invitation and a promise: “Come to me, you who are weary and heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” Jesus is still teaching us this wisdom, handing us four gifts -- Sabbath, release, wellspring and energy for mission, says a retired Baptist pastor.
After confronting a long-standing fear, an Episcopal priest wonders what joys might be in store if we will admit what terrifies us most and ask God's help in healing.
Churches are the front line of encountering suffering in large portions of our culture and have the opportunity and responsibility to minister to people with mental illness, say two psychiatrists trained in theology.
One of the first faculties to suffer when a pastor stumbles into the valley of shadows is the capacity for theological reflection, says a Christian leader who has struggled with depression.
Though it receives little attention in the West, access to mental health care is one of the most critical health issues in Africa, says a Kenyan psychiatrist.
How a thriving community of faith lives gently with those suffering with mental illness.
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The belief that he should “pray his way through” depression prevented a pastor from seeking counseling. But after going to a therapist, the pastor of Miller Memorial Baptist Church in Philadelphia wants to persuade others to seek a therapist’s help.