Join the Rev. Deb Matthews in an exploration into how congregations can be crucial in accompanying those with mental illness through their often difficult lives. Drawing from her own personal experience and witness, Deb will suggest simple, uncomplicated responses and approaches for providing support to ourselves and others. Please be aware that the sermon will be of a personal nature and includes brief references to suicide. Chaplain Dave will be present during and after the service, should you find yourself in need of support.
Speaker bio:Hi! My name is Deb Matthews, and I’m a 49-year-old cis-white woman with chronic pain. I now live in the northern suburbs of ChicagoLand but grew up and went to seminary and grad school in California. Then I lived in Phoenix, Detroit, Chicago, Dallas-Fort Worth, and back to Chicago. I’m a Presbyterian (PCUSA) pastor and currently am on disability for my mental illness.
For fun, I take classes in sociology at my local community college, volunteer at my local NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness) office, read novels and non-fiction, make art in my art journal and do paint-by-number or sticker by number kits, and watch a lot of movies. I also like to get together with friends from NAMI and spend time with my dilute calico cat Jasmine.
- Speaker: Rev. Deb Matthews
- Worship Leader: Chelsi Burger
- Music: Ken Johnson
Anyone needing space to move about during the service is invited to Create Cafe just outside the sanctuary in the fireplace room. After the service, everyone is invited to stay for coffee and conversation. Newcomers are invited to Faith Forward Inquirers 12-1:30pm in the multipurpose room. The topic is Membership 101.
To Attend in Person
In accordance with CDC guidance, masks and vaccination are optional. We will ask you to sign in with your contact information for possible contact tracing. We ask you let us know if you find you have a COVID infection within a week of attending a service.
To Attend Online
We conduct our services live on the Zoom platform to allow for a more interactive experience. You will need to have the free Zoom app on your device and have it updated to the latest version. www.zoom.us
Use this link to join us on Zoom.
Meeting ID: 828 9547 4284
Passcode: 989473
Topics: Beloved Community, Compassion, Mental Health