The Standard April 26, 2025
In 2023 the U.S. Surgeon General declared a public health crisis, issuing an advisory regarding the epidemic of loneliness and isolation. . The American Psychiatric Association’s Healthy Minds Monthly Poll in early 2024 showed 30% of adults reporting feelings of loneliness at least once per week over the past one-year period, and 10% reporting feelings of loneliness every day. 30% of young Americans in the 18-34 year age range said they were lonely every day or several times per week. A Gallup poll from late 2024 found that almost 20% of U.S. adults reported loneliness “a lot of the day yesterday.” During the COVID-19 pandemic this number was at a 25% high.
It might seem counterintuitive that in a time when communication options abound, many folks feel disconnected and isolated. Perhaps we are not slowing down enough to engage face-to-face with our neighbors. God created us to live in community and said it was not good for us to be constantly alone. Almost all of us have a deep desire to love and be loved, to understand and be understood. A sense of belonging can bring peace.
Now, more than ever, it is important for the church to be committed to welcoming, listening and engaging. The best and deepest connection comes as we spend time together. Both quality and quantity are important. Perhaps we need to improve ministries to connect with our widows, widowers, singles, or single parents.
“Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.” Galatians 6:2
“Therefore, encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing. Now we ask you, brothers and sisters, to acknowledge those who work hard among you, who care for you in the Lord and who admonish you. Hold them in the highest regard in love because of their work. Live in peace with each other. And we urge you, brothers and sisters, warn those who are idle and disruptive, encourage the disheartened, help the weak, be patient with everyone. Make sure that nobody pays back wrong for wrong, but always strive to do what is good for each other and for everyone else.” 1 Thessalonians 5:11-15
Healthy churches seek to meet needs. When healthy churches work together, the sense of unity in a whole community can be magnified. For over 30 years in Farmville there have been Lenten worship services followed by luncheons, coordinated among different churches. An Easter sunrise service followed by breakfast serves as the culmination of this community Holy Week series.
On Sunday morning, April 27 at 10:00 there will be the annual worship service at the gazebo on Farmville’s Town Commons. All are welcome. For many local congregations, this will be their service for that day. Afterwards, people can enjoy the Dogwood Festival and possibly grab a bite to eat from the various food trucks. This might be a wonderful opportunity to invite someone who would enjoy getting together.
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