It is often said people who suffer from mental illness do not get the same empathy often afforded to people with physical illness.
NAMI recently claimed one half of persons with emotional problems go to churches first for help. Congregations are encouraged to be ready to help people with emotional issues.
What might First Lutheran do to help people with mental illness more?
Both Bishop Eaton and Bishop Briner have suggested congregations not have remote or virtual Holy Communion services. I suggest First Lutheran abide by this advice and not have Holy Communion services
The poncho-like vestment worn at most worship services is to be worn by the presiding minister at Holy Communion. Since there was no sacrament, the vestment was not worn.
Church signs with message boards like the one at First Lutheran Church in Edinburg can create some interesting situations. Sometimes the sign does not communicate what is intended. Following 9/11 at