I was recently talking with some clergy about how hard ministry can be. One person said that it can be hard to be vulnerable because we don’t always know how people will respond. It was astute and true to what I’ve experienced in ministry.

I learned a long time ago, as well, that the only way to encourage vulnerability is to risk it ourselves.

So, I want to tell you a story: About 18 months ago I noticed that I didn’t want to get out of bed in the morning. I didn’t have any desire to work. If you know me, you know that I love work. It was odd that I didn’t feel like working and I knew it.

We had experienced the stillbirth of a daughter just a few months before and I had a sneaking suspicion that had something to do with this lack of drive. I figured I needed to talk to a grief counselor, but I didn’t know where to turn. I was eventually (after 3 separate phone calls) able to get from Blue Cross Blue Shield two names of providers I could contact, and I ended up seeing a counselor. I still am, because my grief, while not at the crisis point it was 18 months ago, is still something that influences my day-to-day life.

I know it can be hard to be vulnerable. Here’s what I want you to hear loud and clear: You can be vulnerable with the Benefits Office because we are here for you. You can contact us and admit that you need help, and we will seek to connect you to the resources you need with no judgment and without it going anywhere beyond our conversation with you.

I believe that you serve under a Bishop and Cabinet that you can also trust, but if you find that hard, know that you can turn to the Benefits Office. We are here for you, and it goes nowhere else!

No one should have to feel like they have things only they can carry. Honestly, I often tell my story to also point out that it shouldn’t have been that hard to find a grief counselor! Especially since when I started as MI Benefits Guy, I found out there was a place I could have turned in our benefits that would have made it easier. We want you to seek help when you need it, and we want to make it private and easy.

That’s all I have to say this month, but it won’t be the last time you hear me say this. We are here for you!

Last Updated on May 3, 2024