Churches encouraged to focus on mental illness, older adult ministry in May.

Church of the Brethren congregations are invited to consider "Offering Hope: The Church's Role with Mental Illness" on Health Promotion Sunday, May 21, in a special emphasis by the Association of Brethren Caregivers (ABC). The Older Adult Ministry of ABC also is encouraging congregations to use the month of May as a time to recognize and provide ministry about older adults.

A special Sunday emphasis on health is sponsored each year by ABC. "By offering the hope and love of God, congregations can walk with families often isolated by the nature of mental illness--an illness that affects one of every four families," said a release from ABC. "Many times families living with mental or emotional illnesses are unable to express their pain, sorrow, and spiritual needs. Sometimes, congregations unwittingly perpetuate stigmas associated with mental illness and further silence those who need compassionate care, acceptance, and understanding."

Health Promotion Sunday resources provide congregations with information about mental illness and the church's unique role of offering help to individuals and families. They are available at www.brethren-caregivers.org. Congregational leaders can request a printed version of the resources at no charge by calling ABC at 800-323-8039.

Several new resources are also available at ABC's website to help congregations consider older adult ministry in worship and Sunday school during May. Older Adult Month helps congregations recognize aging as a natural part of living, and affirm the worth of people in all stages of development and at all functional levels, ABC said. The resources explore issues of loss, empathy, and aging, and were created by members of the Older Adult Ministry Cabinet. A series of reflections provides a month-long study for discussion groups. For more information about Older Adult Ministry, contact ABC staff Scott Douglas at 800-323-8039.

Source: 3/15/2006 Newsline
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