When Mental Illness Meets Pastoral Care
When Doug came to us for help with his bills, he never expected the kindness and hope that he encountered at The Salvation Army. Doug has long been familiar with the systems in place to provide services to individuals with mental illness and physical challenges. He has waited in countless offices for appointments. He has explained his life and circumstances to dozens of doctors, counselors and other professionals over the years, and expected business as usual at The Salvation Army.
He was surprised with what he found.
Instead of speaking to him through his mother and caregiver, the caseworker spoke directly to Doug. The caseworker listened, even when Doug's story was bitter and full of complaints. When other people tuned Doug out, the people at the Salvation Army tuned in to get to the heart of what he was saying. That kind of compassion and personal care touched Doug and his mother.
The caseworker invited them both to worship on Sunday, explaining that the money for the light bill will help for just a little while, but the hope offered on Sunday would last forever. Having experienced the love of Jesus in the social service office, Doug and his mom came to church the next Sunday.
Doug was embraced by the congregation immediately. With the help of the pastors, Captains John and Judith Fetzer, Doug has attained some personal and spiritual goals, including becoming an active church member and setting healthier boundaries for himself. Doug, who struggles to stay positive, doesn't know what he would do without the community and friendship he has found at The Salvation Army. When he was in the hospital, he had visitors. When he is struggling with depression, he can reach out for prayer and encouragement. When he has good news, he celebrates with friends.
In a world rife with hopelessness, depression, loneliness and suicide, Doug is grateful for the service and love found at The Salvation Army. "These people truly saved my life," he says.