James Island Baptist is hosting a NAMI presentation. The by-line asks “Did you know that 1 in 4 people are affected by severe mental illness?” As a matter of fact, I did not know that. That is the point for hosting this presentation. There is a lot about mental health issues that I do not know…and I have read quite a bit.
So what is the goal of this meeting. First, they will address the stigma associated with having a mental illness. They presenters will share personal stories of living with and overcoming the challenges posed by mental illness. By broadening peoples knowledge of mental illness, we replace misunderstanding, fear and judgment with insight, awareness and acceptance.
Imagine if we as followers of Christ can help reduce the stigma associated with being mentally ill. Imagine if JIBC continued to be a safe place for people who struggle with a variety of hurts habits and hang-ups. What a help to know there is a place where you can find support and acceptance. I believe JIBC is such a place. We are just adding a mental health initiative to our ministries.
In Our Own Voice is a 60 minute presentation geared to community audiences. It will help us better understand 58 Million Americans contending with mental illness. It will help us understand ourselves, our families, our friends and neighbors.
Join us Wednesday night, August 23, at 6 p.m. in the Fellowship Hall.
See you there, good Lord willing.
Pastor Tom
