Scripture: James 5:13-20

Sermon: Linzi Anderson

We have a new door locking system and want to make you aware of how it works. The doors are scheduled to be unlocked for church events; however, if you arrive at church for another reason, you will most likely find the door locked. When the door is locked during office hours, you will need to push the grey button to the right of the main entrance doors so the office volunteer can unlock the door.

If you need to unlock the doors before or after office hours, please contact Glenda Andrews or Rich Johnson.

We are living through a time that brings unique struggles. Due to the pandemic, we are focused on physical health, but it is also important to focus on mental health. Recently, I participated in a Zoom meeting with Police Chief Faulkner and Mayor Moore on Mental Health Awareness and specifically Suicide Prevention. From January through July of this year, we have had 4 deaths by suicide and 23 attempts in the city of Franklin. Then in August alone, 3 more people took their lives, and all 7 deaths have been male. Our city leaders are concerned for the mental health of our citizens and are asking faith leaders to help educate and encourage others to reach out.

We are created to live in community. Reaching out to talk to a friend, family member, or professional about how you are feeling is a sign of strength, not weakness. Franklin recently created a wonderful website, www.findhopefranklin.com, that provides important resources, including crisis and support lines, community counseling organizations, medical and psychiatric centers, substance abuse information, and other resources. I encourage everyone to click on the link and see all the information readily available. You may need some of the resources today or you may know someone who could benefit from them, and we all need to be aware of this website for future needs.

In addition to all these resources, your church family is here for you. As pastors, our door is always open for conversation, and our Stephen Ministers are always here to walk with you during a difficult time.

As I was reminded again this past Sunday, our faith community cares deeply for one another. You are loved by your church family, and we are all in this together.

Much love and deep peace,

Anne

One way to put it is that Stephen Ministers are the After People. Stephen Ministers are there

WHEN YOU NEED HELP, A STEPHEN MINISTER IS AVAILABLE FOR YOU! ACCEPT THE GIFT OF A STEPHEN MINISTER. You need not suffer alone. Contact Judi Arnold ([email protected]) or one of the pastors.

If you feel called to serve in this ministry as a preparer or deliverer of food, or if you are in need of a meal, contact Sue Mahurin at [email protected].

Reservations are needed for dinner each week. The deadline to register is the Sunday prior to that particular Wednesday. Register today for Spaghetti Dinner on 9/29. We will have a few extra meals available for guests. Click here to make your reservation.

To make an appointment to donate, please visit: www.redcrossblood.org and use Sponsor Code FPCF19

Any questions, contact Melinda Henderson, MD [email protected].