Tools for Building Bridges in the Midst of Trouble Bishop Teresa Jefferson-Snorton Presiding Bishop Fifth Episcopal District Christian Methodist Episcopal Church

John 16: 33 “I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world”

What Is a Bridge? A connector between two points This Photo by Unknown Author is licensed under CC BY-SA

Can you build a bridge by starting at either end? This PhotoC BY-SA

Most Essential Tool

In Ministry: The Foundation of Building Bridges People

Spiritually Healthy People Communities Churches

A Solid Foundation Spirituality

A Solid Foundation: Spirituality A person’s life and activity in relationship to God, to oneself, to other people, and to all things in reference to God

Elements of Spirituality An awareness of the transcendent Validation of support of religious behaviors God loves me Being thankful Feeling forgiven With God’s help, can transcend my circumstances This Photo by Unknown Author is licensed under CC BY-NC-ND This Photo by Unknown Author is licensed under CC BY-NC-ND

Spirituality (continued) A sense of belonging Unconditional love Personal dignity Support in dealing with change and loss Continuity

Spirituality (continued) A sense of meaning An internal sense of purpose and hope Ability to express doubt and anger Beliefs to help prepare for change and loss

Spirituality (continued) A means of creativity Sense of worthiness Love and serve others

Barriers to Spiritual Growth Unfinished business Unrealistic Obligations Unclear Priorities

Consequences of a Underdeveloped Spirituality Lack of a sense of fulfillment Isolation Difficulty making decisions Mistrust and fear Inability to engage/help others

Hindrances to Spiritual Growth Too many commitments Lack of awareness of needs Poor self-esteem High expectations/perfectionism “Messiah” or “Superwoman” complex Lack of Resources

Consequences of Poor Spirituality Physical illness Compromised mental health Spiritual emptiness Loss of enthusiasm for life Inability to adapt to change

DISCUSSION What is currently challenging your ability to maintain or establish a solid foundation of spirituality?

What are the essential elements for a healthy relationship to self? Mrs. Cynthia Ward Southside CME Church Birmingham, Alabama

Christian Chapel Temple of Faith CME Church What are the essential elements for a healthy relationship between church and community? Rev. Dr. Vanessee Burns Christian Chapel Temple of Faith CME Church Dallas, Texas

Conclusion What can I do to have a healthy spirituality upon which to build bridges?

STEP 1. REST A period of purposeful inactivity for the mind, body and spirit

STEP 2. REFLECTION A time of reviewing what has happened, how you feel/felt, how you were impacted by life’s events and experiences

STEP 3. RETOOLING A process of assessing the information, resources, skills, interaction you need in the future

STEP 4. REFUELING The process of obtaining the information, resources, skills and interaction that you identified

STEP 5. RENEWAL The process of re-engagement in life and relationships with new energy, insight and growth.