In this time of uncertainty, community is essential. While social distancing is a necessary precaution, it can result in feelings of isolation and fear. Our desire is for our faith family to rise up like never before. Let’s be a church to surround each other in Christ-centered community and spur each other on in both grace and truth.
First and foremost, we want to continue to gather as a church body. While this looks a bit different now with an online gathering, there is power in the consistency of meeting together at the same time each week. Join our family online as we worship and open God’s Word together every Sunday at 9 and 10:30am.
If you’re already in a group, continue to meet together online whether that is through Zoom, Google hangout, or in person following the CDC guidelines. Not connected to a group? We would love to help you find one. You can visit Bay Shore’s group page under the Connect tab above to find a group and reach out to the leader.
Another helpful resource available to our church family is reading.
Books to consider reading:
Anxiety:
- Henry Cloud “Changes that Heal”
- Henry Cloud “A Healing Body”
- John Piper “Look at the Book – do not be anxious”
Scripture:
- Matt Chandler “Psalm 23”
- Jennie Allen “Rooted in the Word”Other:- Jennie Allen “Enjoying Jesus”
- Erwin McManus “Chasing Daylight”
One of the best ways to combat feelings of isolation during this time is to go outside. If it’s safe for you medically, a simple walk outdoors can make a noticeable difference in your mental state. If you can’t go outside your home, simply opening your windows for fresh air and daylight can make a significant change in your mood.
Download YouVersion Bible App on your phone and start a plan with family or friends, then discuss together!
Listen to podcasts on your phone while you walk or exercise at home or outside.
Activities:
Exercise at home or in your backyard – use the things you have at home, challenge your friends, find Youtube videos. Make it fun!-
Prayer walks – Check out our prayer page for a How to Pray for Bay Shore guide.
Do something creative – whether it is learning to paint, re-organizing your house, writing, starting a journal- we are all creative people because we were made by a Creator.
Make a schedule – otherwise it will be a week or two later and you’ll realize you feel pointless and distracted and discouraged- don’t allow that to happen.
Reach out to loved ones- Write letters, Facetime or call and check in.
Serve the community – check out Bay Shore’s Get Involved tab for opportunities.
Serve your neighborhood – knock on neighbor’s doors or put a note at their door letting them know that you will help grab them groceries or other items if they need it. Let them know that you will be careful and you want to help them stay safe.
- Bring your neighbors a letter of encouragement or flowers – what an opportunity to share that they are not alone, you see them and the God of the universe sees them.
This time of uncertainty can be difficult to process. If you are struggling, contact friends and family or our staff. We would love to pray with you and work alongside you to seek help.
Articles to check out:
Often when we seek out information online, it’s easy to become overwhelmed. Here are some accredited articles that give both information and ways to ease anxiety and worry.
We want to be a church that fights mental illness alongside our people while reminding them of the true freedom found in a life-giving relationship with Jesus Christ.
Awareness of anxiety and helpful techniques to ease anxiety:
https://ct.counseling.org/2017/05/living-with-anxiety/
Combating stress within a chaotic world:
https://ct.counseling.org/2017/08/high-anxiety/
Information on panic attacks, noticing triggers, and techniques to relieve panic:
https://ct.counseling.org/2018/07/when-panic-attacks/
Walking through irrational thinking, healthy communication, and dealing with panic:
https://www.therapistaid.com/
Dr. Caroline Leaf is a powerful speaker on mental health. Listen to her podcasts or check out her website: https://drleaf.com/
These resources are meant to offer a starting point for information and tactics for combating complex issues. If you find yourself with questions you can’t answer, please reach out for help.