Mental Health Ministry (was re: new member

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> >talked of starting something similar for psychiatric patients.  Does

> My dad is a Registered Nurse or RN at a mental hospital in Florida,
> called George Pierce Memorial Hospital.   When I was much younger, say
> around 10 or so, my mother sometimes brought a "client" (that's what
> their supposed to be called for now) to church.

A couple of the members at are church -- Kevin and Diane -- are adults
who are severely retarded.  They are in about their thirties.  Diane is
about as mature as a ten year old, Kevin is mentally and emotionally
about five.  They are both a joy to have around.

Everyone in church is very accepting of them, and the children know not
to make "fun" of them or comment on their appearance, dress, etc.  It's
good the church is able to minister to them like we do and let them
participate in the social aspects of church as well as the spiritual.

Kevin is often the first to stand up and shout "Amen!" and
"Hallelujah!" during the preaching.  His love of God is deep in his
heart and he has a very gentle spirit.  He's "special" in more ways
than one.

I'm not sure where Kevin comes from (probably a group home of sorts),
but Diane lives with her mother.  Diane is consistently the top
pledge-winner in our annual Sheaves For Christ walkathons.  She's a
little grumpier than Kevin :-) and we have to watch her sometimes, but
she also is a blessing to have in the church.

Richard Masoner