Dear Trinity Family,
As I write this letter, I am reflecting on my calendar over the last few weeks. I have noticed the number of people calling for pastoral care or just to have someone to talk to. As I talk to my pastoral colleagues, we are aware of the challenges many people in the community we serve are struggling.
As I spend time in prayer over the last few weeks, I have been drawn to the words of Psalm 42. Two sections of this psalm have resonated with me…
Verses 1-2 As a deer longs for flowing streams so my soul longs for you, O God. My soul thirsts for God, for the living God.
Verses 5 and 11 Why are you cast down, O my soul, and why are you disquieted within me? Hope in God; for I shall again praise him, my help and my God.
This psalm embodies images of longing for God. Have you ever experienced times of a disquieted spirit or a down cast soul? For most of us the answer is yes… as humans we encounter disappointment, challenges, disease, and crisis that can impact our spirits. For some this experience may just be a bump in the road that in time resolves itself with prayer, support from family or friends, and sometime just time. But for others there are times of deep challenge and distress. Where we still need prayer, and support from family and friends but we may need more help from those who are living out their God given vocation in the health field.
Watonwan Conference Pastors met in Truman this past week. We often share frustration about lack of available resources in the area of mental health care and support in our rural areas. A representative from South Central Mobile Crisis Team joined the pastors meeting and shared resources available for our counties for those dealing with crisis. The South Central Mobile Crisis teams mission is to provide caring - coping and calming the crisis in South Central Minnesota neighborhoods. I want to draw these resources to you attention as well. The Mobile Crisis Team is available to help individuals, their families and friends help in times of crisis.
Definition of a crisis, provided by the mobile crisis team-
* feeling of stress or being overwhelmed
* suddenly finding it difficult to complete normal daily activities do to stress or other symptoms
* increase or change in symptoms such as mood, anxiety, panic attacks, hallucinations or delusions
* plans or thoughts of hurting yourself or others
The South Central Mobile Crisis Team can be accessed by calling 877-399-3040. I have some magnets and handouts available at both churches for more information.
People of God, the greatest commandment is - Love the Lord your God with all you heart, mind, and soul - and the second is like it. Love your neighbor as yourself. Please be take time to checking on one another. Please take care of yourself, as well. If you or someone you know is dealing with depression, anxiety, extreme stress or other mental illness do not hesitate to reach out to your pastor, your physician, or resources like The South Central Mobile Crisis Team . There is help available.
You are loved!
Pastor Krista
