If you find yourself complaining, dissatisfied, or discontent, I suggest it’s time to get alone with God, your Bible, and perhaps a journal and have an honest conversation with Him about the condition of your heart.

As he was ascending to Heaven, Jesus said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.” (Matthew 28:18-20).

Notice that Jesus told his followers to “go and make” disciples. He didn’t say: Stay and be disciples, but go and make them. It’s vital that we recognize there’s an outward movement to Christ’s Great Commission; there’s an outward movement to discipleship.

Juan Esteban Saravia, born in Santiago, is currently serving as the Spanish Pastor at Christ Church Vienna, Vienna, VA and is studying for a master’s degree at the Anglican Seminary – Trinity School for Ministry. On January 25, 2025 in Santiago, Chile, Juan Esteban will be consecrated as the second Bishop for the Diocese of Santiago, Chile. 

Living Mission: Synod 2024

Holy Spirit in Leesburg, VA invites you to a Healing Service with the Rev. Jay Baylor on October 5 at 5 p.m.

This Apostles, filled 32 backpacks with the requested supplies from each student's class.

The Truro Church Seniors Ministry warmly invites you to a special seminar designed to help protect you from cybercrime.

Join Five Talents and Anne Beiler, founder of Auntie Anne’s pretzel shops, to celebrate the power of entrepreneurship to transform lives. 

While abuse isn’t a topic many people want to think about, I believe it’s vital that the Church and her leaders grow in our understanding of this issue.

And why? Because this is a Gospel issue.

Exploring the mental wellness barriers within faith circles reveals complex layers. Mental illness in churches often encounters stigma, a roadblock to open dialogue. Mental wellness isn’t always seen as a legitimate medical condition, but rather a spiritual shortcoming. This misunderstanding can hinder access to appropriate mental healthcare. Many churches are stepping up by integrating mental wellness discussions into their activities. Pastors are beginning to address mental illness openly, striving to break the stigma.

This is why I shall happily – though not without a certain unavoidable self-consciousness – wear funny clothes as I take vows and have a Bishop ask God’s blessing over me on Saturday. They show beyond doubt who I am serving.