Pastoral Letter #1
- Rev. Goodwin
- Apr 17, 2020
- 3 min read
Dear Friends,
I trust that we are all managing and staying safe during the extended lockdown period we are currently in. We are aware that there are many in our communities who may experience particular distress during this extended period of isolation and some of our members have asked how we can assist those in need during this time. All interventions that are taking place need to take into account the regulations which are in place and the Synod Crisis Team are connecting with the stakeholders in the response being lead by the government since it is vitally important that all interventions that take place do so in a safe and coordinated way. For those of us who wish to be of assistance in some way these are the means of assistance that have come through official church communication from the Synod and Circuit:
For those who have skills to offer and are willing to volunteer with the department of health there is an online application that you can fill in to be placed on their contact list. In particular the department are looking for people with administrative or community support skills. There is a need is around trauma and bereavement counselling as well as those who may have community health skills to assist with door to door testing. You can sign up on the link below:
Within our circuit we have asked our stewards to report to their ministers families which may be in acute distress whom we can assist with a food parcel, Rev. Sanele who is on the Synod Crisis Team reports that at present there are 55 people on the list in our circuit. You can assist us by making a donation towards the purchase of groceries. Donations can be made to the circuit bank account and the details are below, please reference this donation with “Food Parcels” so that we can ensure the donation is allocated correctly. We are further looking for two or three young and healthy volunteers who are willing to assist us with deliveries of food parcels or shopping where needed, we are also hoping to rather send people a virtual voucher if possible. If you are willing to assist please be in contact with the minister directly so that we can screen and arrange the document necessary. The circuit bank details are:
Bank: FNB
Branch: Rondebosch
Account No: 620 894 94 084
Reference: Food Parcels
You can assist with the community initiatives in our area, you can find out more information from the following links:
This is a difficult time for many people and it can be easy to underestimate the toll that the lockdown may be taking on your mental health, especially if you already struggle with mental health challenges like depression or anxiety. Please take care of yourselves and take the time and initiative to connect with your support systems and engage in exercise and meditation. Should you be experiencing mental or emotional distress be mindful of it and seek support. The following resources are available from THE SOUTH AFRICAN DEPRESSION AND ANXIETY GROUP:
- Online Toolkit on the SADAG website (www.sadag.org) with free resources, online videos, reliable resources, coping skills, online tools and info on social distancing, self-isolation, etc.
- Chat online with a counsellor 7 days a week from 9am – 4pm via the Cipla Whatsapp Chat Line 076 882 2775.
- FREE online #Facebook Expert Chats daily, 1pm – 2pm on the SADAG Facebook Page: The South African Depression and Anxiety Group
- SMS 31393 or 32312 and a counsellor will call you back – available 7 days a week, 24 hours a day.
- SADAG Helplines providing free telephonic counselling, information, referrals and resources 7 days a week, 24 hours a day – call 0800 21 22 23, 0800 70 80 90 or 0800 456 789 or the Suicide Helpline 0800 567 567 .
Let us be mindful of those in our circle who may be particularly vulnerable and stay connected to one another by calling or sending a message.
Blessings
Graham
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