Newton Cowan, Associate Pastor for Pastoral Care
This past week some of the staff and congregation members participated in a 2-day training to be a Mental Health First Aider. The training was conducted by the Kellin Foundation, an amazing organization here in Greensboro.
We know that mental health challenges are on the rise, especially among our young people. As trained First Aiders, we are not called to diagnosis or to treat, but to be a presence and help guide people to the numerous resources we have in our community and to be part of their journey.
There is always hope. The staff, particularly the Pastoral Care staff, are here for you and your families. Navigating the challenges of life can be difficult and often isolating, but you don’t have to be alone.
This leads to a larger picture of the Pastoral Care Ministry. We are beginning a process of aligning our pastoral care staff with the broader needs of the congregation. This is a reminder, or maybe news for the first time, that we are here for you! We are here to be a listening presence, to be a sounding board, to be a resource for what is available in our community. We are not the be-all, end-all, but part of a team to journey with you for a short time or a long time.
Want to know more? Call (336-478-4737) or email me! I am happy to have a conversation on the phone or over a cup of coffee.
Also know that you all are part of the care of this congregation. We can’t help if we don’t know. So, if you encounter a member who is having some challenges, ask their permission to let us know. Then call me, we are here!
