Although Jesus promises us a life of abundance, we have to cope daily with life's complexities and problems. Jesus never said life would be easy, only that He would never leave us. Sometimes we need the help of others when we are discouraged. Seeking that help is a sign of strength, not weakness or lack of faith. Seeking that help from a trained professional, someone who is also knowledgeable of the Scriptures, is a wise decision.
For individual, couple, or family therapy, please contact Dennis or Nicole through the church office at 837-2269 or the Kirk House at 972-0190.
Abundant Life Ministry
The Life Team covers the spectrum from beginning to end: pregnancy resources, adoption and foster care, post-abortion healing, organ donation/health care directives, hospice, life-affirming news/events. From education to practical resources, we seek to encourage people to live the abundant life God intended.
Caregivers
This ongoing support group offers encouragement and resources for those touched by Alzheimer's Disease or other dementia. It meets on the second Tuesday of the month in Room 135. Contact Mary Swip at 314-831-3750 or mjswip@yahoo.com.
Celebrate Recovery (Fridays from 6-10 p.m.)
Celebrate Recovery is a ministry of healing and freedom from life's hurts, habits and hang-ups using the twelve Steps and eight Recovery Principles found in the Scriptures. Meeting with others who have been changed, sharing experiences, strengths and hopes with one another as well as working and applying Biblical principles, we can grow spiritually. We can then become free from our addictive, compulsive and dysfunctional behaviors. Everyone struggles with hurts, habits and hang-ups that sometimes send us spiraling out of control. Jesus offers us forgiveness and freedom along with peace, joy and a stronger relationship with God and others.
If you or someone you know is struggling with an addiction to drugs, food, sex, codependency, gambling, etc. or is struggling with a major hurt or hang-up (grief, depression, anxiety) and you want to know more about this ministry, you can leave a confidential message with Dennis Hounshell (837-2269, ext. 34) or email Dennis.
Celebrate Recovery meets every Friday from 6-10 p.m. which includes a meal (6 p.m.), a celebration service and teaching or testimony each week (7 p.m.), small groups for men's and women's issues (8 p.m.) followed by the CrossTalk Cafe at 9 p.m.
DivorceCare
There aren't many people around you who understand the pain your divorce or separation has caused to you, your family and friends. That's the reason for DivorceCare at First Christian. It's a series of support groups and seminars conducted by people who understand what you are experiencing. Most importantly, you'll learn how to deal with the pain of the past and look forward to rebuilding your life. They meet on Wednesdays at 7:00 p.m. in room 219. You may contact Joy at 314-506-5623 or onevoiceofjt@lpemail.com.
Financial Counseling
This group provides one-on-one counseling for individuals or couples who want to gain control of their financial future. Counseling can address those who want guidance and direction as well as those in serious financial trouble. Contact the church office at 314-837-2269 for more information.
Free to Care
This support group meets twice a month from September through May. It is designed to address the issues and needs of women who have survived sexual abuse on a journey towards our Master and Healer, Jesus. Please contact Janet at 314-680-4494 or jansueross@sbcglobal.net.
Grief Support
If you've lost a spouse, child, family member or friend, you've probably found that there are not many people who understand the deep hurt you feel. That's the reason for GriefShare, a special seminar and support group for people grieving the loss of someone close. This group is sponsored by people who understand what you are experiencing and want to offer you comfort and encouragement during this difficult time. They meet on the second and fourth Sunday of each month from 5-6:30 p.m. at the Kirk House. Contact Russell Guethle at 838-7895 or Deb Treat at 838-3546 with any questions.
Marriage Ministry
At First Christian, we believe it is possible to have a loving, lasting marriage. The Marriage Ministry exists to help married couples strengthen their relationships and build marriages that are healthy, solid and fun. Marriage conferences and small groups are just a couple of ways you can get involved in this ministry. For more information, contact Dennis Hounshell, Family Life Minister, at (314) 837-2269.
