As a young woman church planting in Philadelphia and raising five young boys, I found myself with very little margin, given all of my responsibilities. I believed that if something was hard, it must be what the Lord wanted me to do – they were synonymous. I was overly responsible for other people’s needs and honestly didn’t realize that saying “no” was an option. I had...
Caring for others is a sacred calling—but let’s be honest, it can leave us weary. We pour ourselves out daily, often forgetting that we, too, need care. True self-care isn’t about chasing comfort for its own sake; it’s an invitation to rest. Specifically, to rest in the heart of God, who lovingly designed us with limits. Our limitations, our inability to do it all, or...
Have a "virtual coffee" with one of our Counseling Residents, Julie Ross! Dive into her world as she shares some insights and experiences as a Resident with us. A little about her: Julie is pursuing a Master of Arts in Counseling at Westminster Theological Seminary. She already has a B.S. in occupational therapy and a broad and diverse career in many healthcare settings....
Nearness, love, belonging: these are some of our greatest desires and needs as created beings made in God's image. The absence of community or relationship might be your greatest fear and the cause of much fear and anxiety within and outside the church. We long for the steady assurance that we are not alone, that we're delighted in, and that someone will be there for us...
A story of forgiveness, by Bryan Launer After a season of counseling with us, one counselee reflects, "I was able to make a lot of growth in forgiving people who have hurt me in the past." Forgiveness is hard. This small glimpse into one counselee's experience is really a miracle. Forgiveness doesn't come naturally; it is a fruit of the Spirit's work. In this, we can...