Here is another Missional story for you to ponder from my friend, Ethel Ware Carter. God continues to fuel our passions as we reach out to the most neglected of our world. Missional ministry means participating in God’s mission in the world. Here’s another glimpse from the pathway…
A shamefully deficient mental health care system and the story of Nehemiah led an Atlanta psychiatrist to begin an ecumenical faith-driven initiative to help citizens of Georgia who suffer from mental illness. Overcrowded and understaffed hospitals and inadequate community mental health services have led to neglect, abuse, and perhaps over 100 avoidable deaths.
Dr. Branko Radulovacki explained,” For months, I, like many other Georgia residents, have … been waiting and hoping that the governor and other legislative leaders will do something meaningful to solve this crisis. I now realize that citizens like me need to get involved. I asked myself: How can I make a difference? I picked up the Bible and opened it to Chapter 2 of Nehemiah. You will remember that Nehemiah was saddened when he heard of the desolation of Jerusalem. He fasted, and prayed, and mourned for the holy city. Then, he acted — seeking permission to go to Jerusalem to rebuild the walls as a first step in protecting the people.”
Dr. Radulovacki said, “I, too, realize that I am called to do something . . . to speak out and act on behalf of those who can’t or won’t — those who will suffer the consequences of our state’s lethargic response to the mental health crisis.”
As a psychiatrist in private practice he was familiar with the challenges of treating the mentally ill. He understood the speed with which steps must be taken to help the suicidal, addicted, or psychotic. He also knew that the stigma of mental illness often leads to the isolation of the mentally ill from their community which may remain untouched, ignorant of the critical needs of the suffering, and unresponsive. We often do not embrace those among us who suffer from mental illnesses with the love our faith requires of us.
“Faithworks” brings together faith leaders from a broad spectrum of religious institutions and nonprofit organizations. Its shapers are committed to reframing the crisis in mental health care as a moral and spiritual issue. FaithWorks intends to educate our community and promote effective solutions, equipping the faith community to act on behalf of those with mental illness who have no choice but to place themselves under the state’s care. Faithworks is inspired by Jesus’ love and will act to show that love.
The FaithWorks website details the short history and plans of this initiative. http://faithworksga.com
Send me your stories, keep the “glimpses” flowing! (For more stories, see “Glimpses of Missional Faithfulness” available from the CBF store, http://www.cbfstore.info.)
Bo Prosser