“You just need to pray harder.” “Stop feeling sorry for yourself.” “Look on the bright side!” Have you heard these kinds of statements before? However well-intentioned, such statements usually hurt more than they help.
Churches haven’t always done a great job when it comes to mental health. At their best, churches offer a safe place for people to share their struggles and receive affirmation, love, and care. But far too often, churches reinforce the stigma our society has placed around issues of mental health.
It’s time to stop the stigma.
At First Christian Church, we believe that God loves each of us just as we are. Mental health struggles aren’t a sign of weakness or a moral failing. They’re simply part of being human. God embraces us in all our messy humanity and offers us compassion, understanding, and hope.
From August 18th to September 29th, our Sunday worship services will focus on mental health as it relates to Christian spirituality. Each week we’ll discuss a different mental health topic, offering compassion and hope for those suffering and practical tips for those who want to help. There will be an accompanying class called “Mental Health First Responders” that will meet at 9:45am.
Wherever you are in your mental health journey, we invite you to journey with us! See below for more information…
About Our Worship
First Christian Church meets every Sunday at 10:45am. Our building is located at 1806 Central Avenue. If this is your first time visiting our church, don’t worry— we have guests visit our church all the time. If this is your first time attending church for awhile (or ever), welcome! No matter your beliefs or background, you are welcome here. You don’t have to think like us, act like us, or believe like us to belong. (Frankly, we don’t all think, act, or believe the same way either!) For more information about what to expect, click here.
Mental Health First Responders Class
This class will meet starting on August 25th, one week after the series begins, at 9:45am. We will discuss the topic from the previous week, exploring the biblical foundations more deeply and discussing effective ways to respond to those we encounter who are struggling with their mental health.
Sermon Videos
Join us on Sunday morning in-person or online, or check back later in the week for the video!
Additional Resources
Local Mental Health Support
If you are struggling, one of the best things you can do is seek professional help. Hot Springs is blessed with many licensed, experienced counselors who can assist you on your mental health journey.
***If you are having thoughts of suicide, please reach out to the 24hr Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. Just dial 988, and someone will be ready to talk with you.
Scriptures for Your Mental Health Journey
(If you don’t have a Bible handy, you can copy and paste these references into your browser search engine)
Psalm 23
Psalm 34:18
Psalm 147:3
Matthew 6:25-34
Matthew 11:28-30
2 Corinthians 1:3-4
1 Peter 5:7
Revelation 21:4