from Michael Curry, Lay Minister for Disability Education, Advocacy, and Awareness
Members and Friends of the Southwest Conference:
As we continue to move through this time of COVID, know that I am walking with, praying with, and praying for you from a safe and comfortable distance as you and your congregation continue to discover and discern how God is calling you and your congregation to “Be the Church” in a new and different light.
In a recent conversation with a close friend and colleague, I revealed that I had arrived at a spiritual crossroad. As we continue to navigate the way in which Our Still Speaking God is calling us to discern and discover how to “Be the Church” in a new way.
The spirit has spoken to me in such a way that I share these words as a gentle reminder that I am present and available from a safe and comfortable distance. As we continue to navigate how God is calling us to “Be the Church” in a new and different light, I understand and am fully aware that I do not want to add additional stress to our churches.
How I can be of service to you from a safe and comfortable distance amid this pandemic? If your congregation is interested in and/or ready to officially begin the process to become a WISE (Welcoming, Inclusive, Supportive, and Engaging) Congregation for Mental Health, let me know how I can help you and your congregation and connect with the UCC Mental Health Network (www.mhn-ucc.org) as you begin your WISE journey. I encourage you to reach out to utilize the UCC MHN’s resources and can also help direct you to local mental health and wellness resources for your congregation.
If your congregation is not yet ready to officially begin the process to become a WISE Congregation for Mental Health, I encourage you to think about how you can use the WISE acronym to “Be the Church” now and as we begin to safely return to in-person gatherings.
I look forward to seeing and connecting with you soon from a safe and comfortable distance.
Your companion on the Journey,
Michael Curry
Southwest Conference UCC
Lay Minister for Disability Education, Advocacy, and Awareness
Direct: 623-570-5656
Email: swclayminister@gmail.com