People of all ages and backgrounds worry. According to the Anxiety and Depression Association of America, nineteen percent of adults and over thirty percent of teens suffer from anxiety regularly. Anxiety disorders are the most common mental illnesses in our country.  What are we to do with so much stress and worry?

 

Scripture tells us in 1 Peter 5:7 to cast all of our anxiety on God, because God cares for us. Jesus told his followers not to let their hearts be troubled, and not to worry or be afraid.

 

That sounds great, but in reality, letting go of stress, fear, and anxiety is not easy. 

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The writer of Phillippians 4:6 gives us some actual “how-tos” for anxiety.  The passage tells us not to be anxious about anything, but to bring our requests and needs to God.  No matter what troubles we face, we can bring our petitions to God. Through prayer and thanksgiving anxiety is transformed into peace.  

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Each Sunday in April, First Church will explore the causes of anxiety and how we cope with it.  We will get insight from scripture about how we can pray in ways that will do more than simply manage anxiety.  

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How Can I Manage Anxiety?

On April 7, we will talk about addiction and how we look for relief from anxiety in unhealthy ways. John and Susan Butler will be with us to share in song and testimony. John has been sober for 51 years and God has transformed his life.  

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How Can  I Reduce Anxiety?

On April 14, we will consider how we deal with the cascade of information and opinions that bombard us through the news, headlines, and social media. We will see how sharing our concerns in conversation, listening, and prayer can open up our understanding. We will pray and take communion together. 

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I Worry About Our Earth.

On April 21, Earth Day, we will see how eco-anxiety impacts our world. When we connect with nature and the Creator, our prayers bring awareness and move us to action as stewards of the earth.  Together, we will learn how to respond to climate change and the existential fears it brings. 

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These are Stressful Times. How Can I Be Calm?  

On April 28, we will explore how people in our community and worldwide live and deal with trauma. War –and all its horror– can seem far away until we face the way violence and abuse impact us right here, in our home communities. Deaconess Catherine Insenerra, manager of Faith and Community Relations with Kids Above All, will speak about her passion for building well-being for all children through mission partnerships. 

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