SPIRITUAL HEALTH & EMOTIONAL WELLNESS - Stress

SPIRITUAL HEALTH & EMOTIONAL WELLNESS: Stress.

In my last blog post I quoted from Glenn Bleakney’s article, “Three ways to discern God is moving you in a new direction,” I talked about anxiety and depression. Today I want to share with you on the subject of Stress.

Have you ever hit a wall, been stopped dead in your tracks by a disruption of your plans, experienced a depleting of your resources or a dissipation of a relationship. It may be God’s way of moving you in a new direction. It was in my case. Personally I experienced all three in succession in 2014.  Anxiety, depression and stress are no strangers during such a time.

I like to claim December 2014, my 37^th year in ministry as the 12^th month that became a month that redeemed the year as I experienced a release to freedom and a reversal of fortunes. (2 Kings 25: 27-30).

After spending 6 months in Edmonton operating a private counselling practice and accepting referrals from the Church we attended, we made a decision to return to Pastor’s Inn Ministries’ home base in Woodstock NB. PIM is a ministry that we have been officially operating since 2013. From there we set our sights on returning to our home province of Newfoundland to do ministry. In December plans were finalized and in January 2015 I started a part time position as an Employee Assistance Plan (EAP) Counsellor which provided the income to support PIM and my schedule of three days on and four days off allowed me to do pulpit supply on Sundays and Christian Counselling on my off days, from an office provided by Mount Pearl Pentecostal Church.

Our Son Steven, Debbie and the grandchildren Lillian and Harrison welcomed us with open arms. We stayed with them until a furnished house became available to us in St. John’s. It was a great opportunity to respond to needs and also to reconnect with friends and family. Then we were faced with a major decision concerning the future of PIM which was very stressful. Although ministry opportunities were many and needs great it was not financially feasible to move back to Newfoundland and operate PIM. The company I worked with offered me a permanent full time position and encouraged me to relocate. The “fly in the ointment”, was that I would have to return to full time secular employment. 38 years ago I left secular employment for full time ministry. Would I now have to make a decision to leave ministry for full time secular employment? The stress piled on. I loved what I was doing, but PIM was my calling. Dena returned to NB. to a job she was offered in July. Three provinces away from each other we wrestled with making a decision. At the last minute before accepting the contract to be a full time EAP counsellor, an offer came to me to become an “interim” minister at Boom Road Pentecostal Church in New Brunswick just 3 hours from Woodstock. Since we had already considered doing interim ministry as a part of PIM we took it as God moving us in this direction.

Needless to say our son Michael, Terri-Lynn and the grandchildren, Elliot, Emma, Alexandra, Charlotte, and Benjamin who live in NB are glad to see us back. Ruthie already has plans in place for a visit from London to the place she calls home. Ministry and Family are two things that we highly value.

For us 2015 has been great and we are so blessed to minister to a gracious and kind congregation as we conclude one of the most enjoyable years in ministry. Quite the contrast to 2014 and its anxiety, depression and stress.

In concluding I now return to the topic of stress.

Some stress is needful to make us productive, but too much stress can cause serious physical, emotional, and behavioral problems. Like anxiety and depression it can be debilitating. I am so thankful to be released from the anxiety, depression and the stress of 2014.

The Apostle Peter encourages us, Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you. 1 Peter 5:7. The Psalmist reminds us, Cast your cares on the Lord and he will sustain you; he will never let the righteous be shaken. Psalm 55:22

On the practical side there are three things you can do as a preventative measure or to aid in recovery from anxiety, depression and stress:

1.      Eat healthily

2.      Balance Sleep

3.      Exercise regularly

Until next time,Blessings!

Pastor Harold

SPIRITUAL HEALTH & EMOTIONAL WELLNESS: When Life Leaves You Anxious and Depressed

 When Life Leaves You Anxious and Depressed

What do you think and how do you feel when your plans are disrupted, resources deplete or relationships end? Is it time for Counselling?

"I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you with my eye on you" (Ps. 32:8).

This verse is a special verse that I have relied upon during the past 13 years of my spiritual journey. It assures me that God is active in my life. However, I have discovered when my plans are interrupted or changed, resources deplete and relationships are severed, it leaves me with a deep sense of anxiety and depression as I perceive to have lost control.

Maybe you have had a similar experience which have caused you to feel a loss of control, leaving you in a state of anxiety and depression. Sometimes God’s ways doesn’t make sense to us. The ancient writings gives us a good reason for this. "For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are My ways higher than your ways, and My thoughts than your thoughts" (Is. 55:9). He is in control and we have to trust him. Easier said than done. Right?

If you feel a loss of control, it is important to believe that God is in control and, “The Lord is turning the hearts of men in the direction He desires.” (Prov. 21:1). It will help you to move forward.

In counselling clients with anxiety and depression I often use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. Cognitive Behaviour Therapy is a form of psychotherapy that can help you to change how you think ("Cognitive") and what you do ("Behaviour)". These changes can help you to (“Feel”) better.

Glenn Bleakney in his article, “Three ways to discern God is moving you in a new direction,” says, “You may not understand what is currently happening in your life. Does it seem to you that God has messed up your plans? Have resources dried up? Has a relationship disintegrated? “

When such things happen is your natural default to think negatively? Instead of thinking you have lost control and being left with a deep sense of anxiety and depression, you can change the way you are thinking. Begin to think positive and trust God who is at work in your life.

Trusting God at all times is a non-negotiable because the Lord possesses infinite knowledge and perfect wisdom. He is eternal, Almighty and omniscient. He sees the end from the beginning and is completely aware of the final outcome of all things.

According to Bleakney, “There invariably will come a time in our spiritual journey when the Lord will solicit our cooperation in permitting Him to guide us in a new way. His preference is that we would sense His leading, fully cooperate and move in the new direction.However, as is all too often the case, He must intervene in the affairs of our lives due to the fact that we are comfortable and entrenched in our present course of action.”

Bleakney identifies three strategies God uses to move us in a new direction. He expounds on these using Biblical examples which encourages us to accept the truth, change the negative thinking that is the source of anxiety and depression and embrace positive thinking based on truth. Changing the way you think and the way you behave will ultimately change the way you feel.I hope this post will help you to feel better. It will if you change the way you think and behave.

These are the three strategies and examples.

1. Disruption of our Plans

Bleakney writes, “Perhaps you were heading down a certain roadway and you ended up "hitting a wall" and were stopped in your tracks. From that point on, no matter how hard you worked, you were incapable of making significant progress. Initiatives and projects that were originally inspired by a lofty vision and deep passion ended up languishing, some of them even terminating. “

It maybe God interrupting your plans to take you in a new direction to fulfill His plans for you. The Apostle Paul experienced it on his journey.

"They went through the region of Phrygia and Galatia and were forbidden by the Holy Spirit to speak the word in Asia. When they came near Mysia, they tried to go into Bithynia, but the Spirit did not allow them" (Acts 16:6-7.



2. Dissipation of Resources

Elijah had been powerfully used by the Lord to declare prophetically the purpose of God in dealing with Israel. And just as the prophet had foretold, the word of the Lord came to pass. "And there was a severe famine in Samaria ... "(1 Kin. 18:2). God looked after Elijah during the time of famine. “…The ravens brought him bread and meat in the morning, and bread and meat in the evening; and he drank from the brook" (1 Kings 17:2-6). . Although Elijah had come to depend on such provision the day came when the brook would run dry and the birds would no longer fly (see 1 Kin. 17:7).

“Have you experienced something similar? Your streams of resource have dried up. You struggle to make ends meet and you do not know how you are going to keep going. During such a time, trust that the Lord will soon speak to you like He did to Elijah.”

"Then the word of the Lord came to him, saying, 'Arise, go to Zarephath, which belongs to Sidon, and dwell there. See, I have commanded a widow there to provide for you'" (1 Kin. 17:8-9).

3. Dissolution of Relationships

A third way the Lord works to set us in motion in a new direction according to Bleakney, is through the dissolution of certain relationships.

It may be a friendship, a work relationship or some other relationship. Bleakney in his article makes reference to David.

“We see this clearly in the life of David. The heart of King Achish, once favorable to David, turned away from him." Then Achish called David and said to him, 'Surely, as the Lord lives, you have been upright, and your going out and your coming in with me in the army is good in my sight. For to this day I have not found evil in you since the day of your coming to me. Nevertheless the lords do not favor you. Therefore return now, and go in peace, that you may not displease the lords of the Philistines'" (1 Sam. 29:6-7).

He goes on to say, “An unanticipated meltdown in a relationship can cause great pain. Abandonment and unanswered questions will naturally follow. One vital truth to come to grips with is that God will on occasion send certain people into our lives for a short season or perhaps even a brief encounter God-sanctioned, transitory connections, though nonsustainable, serve a purpose in facilitating the plan of the Lord. Being able to differentiate between what is intended to be provisional and what is meant to be permanent will enlighten one of the Father's intention for the relationship. Therefore, do not take the matter personally and become bitter with people as though they are rejecting you.

Have you hit a wall, been stopped dead in your tracks by a disruption of your plans, a depleting of your resources or a dissipation of a relationship. No need for anxiety and depression. Change the way you think and behave and your feelings will change. The bible calls it transformation. “…be transformed by the renewing of your mind”. You may feel out of control but God is in control. Trust Him!

Until next time,
Blessings!
Pastor H.

References:
The Bible
Charisma Magazine: “Three ways to discern God is moving you in a new direction.” Glenn Bleakney

SPIRITUAL HEALTH & EMOTIONAL WELLNESS- " The cure and process for healing sorrowful hearts and broken spirits today."

Today I have been pondering words from two of the most wise men that ever lived on this planet. The words of King Solomon in Proverbs 12: 25 and 15:13. The words of Jesus in Luke 4:18.

Let me preface this post with a personal remark. In thinking about my ministry and profession I am glad I am not a news reporter, simply because it seems as if their mandate is to report “bad news”. I don’t really understand why for example the media shows up to a school to report when something negative or bad happens and are nowhere to be found to report the positive or good things that happen in the same school.

 In my ministry and profession I am blessed with a mandate to proclaim “good news”. My “M.O”. over the past three decades is within the context of the words of Jesus in Luke 4:18. (Paraphrased).

“The Spirit of the Lord has anointed Me
To preach good news to the poor;
to heal the broken hearted,
To proclaim liberty to the captives
And recovery of sight to the blind,
To set free those who are oppressed;”

King Solomon wrote the following many centuries ago.

“Anxiety in the heart of man causes depression,
But a good word makes it glad…….

A merry heart makes a cheerful countenance,
But by sorrow of the heart the spirit is broken.”

Solomon addressed Spiritual Health and Emotional Wellness in his day. Today it remains an important subject. 

 Anxiety and depression have become the common cold of the 21^st. century. Most disability claims from the workplace are related to mental health issues. This replaces physical issues which were the main disability claims of the past. Recent studies show that the statistic which claims one in five people are affected by mental health issues is conservative. It is higher!

Therefore, we can conclude from statistics and observe by their countenance, that there are many people today with sorrowful hearts and broken spirits, caused by anxiety and depression.  

Solomon not only gives us the cause but also the cure. Anxiety causes depression which in turn is the cause of a sorrowful heart, broken spirit and a sad countenance. The cure comes from “a good word”, which makes the heart glad and a merry heart produces a cheerful face. The process of recovery begins with a good word, encouragement or in the words of Jesus, “good news”.

I am blessed as an ordained minister and a professional counsellor in a society filled with anxiety and depression to be mandated to proclaim “GOOD NEWS”, (the words of Jesus). To encourage hope by using acquired skills to “bind up broken hearts”. It can be a time consuming and delicate   process.

 A lot of effort beside skill is required. But the reward is seeing people liberated who were captives of anxiety, depression and other spiritual and emotional issues, to see the light come on in the eyes of people once blinded by negative and irrational thinking as the truth sets them free, to watch as people once downtrodden by oppression comes to freedom.

Solomon gives a description of mental health issues in his day that also describes mental health issues of our day. Jesus introduces the process to achieve mental wellness in his day which works today.

It begins with a “good word”, encouragement or in the words of Jesus, “good news” and the application of learned skills, directed by the Spirit of the Lord to heal, liberate and free people today with sorrowful hearts and broken spirits, caused by anxiety and depression.  

Until Next Time Blessings!
Pastor Harold

SPIRITUAL HEALTH & EMOTIONAL WELLNESS - "A Reversal of Destiny"

A Reversal of Destiny

To say the past two years (2012-2014) were challenging would be an understatement. Actually they were the two most difficult years of my entire life and ministry journey. It started when we had settled into a new ministry position and suddenly found ourselves without our jobs. On the heels of this was the loss of my colleague and Dena’s boss and his wife and son in a tragic accident on Highway 63. Jobless and grieving we had no help available to deal with our losses, other than some words of encouragement from a couple of people at the District office, I was left to try and help Dena get through all of this in the midst of my own emotional pain which was as excruciating as physical pain. My Spiritual health and emotional wellness was put to the test. I would like to say it brought out the best in me but it didn’t, it brought out the worst that was in me and I had to deal with it in order to recover and grow. It was a very painful journey.

In July of 2014 I was given the opportunity to meditate and reflect without distraction, this was the beginning of a series of events that led to my “reversal of destiny”, a term I picked up from Beth Moore’s study on the book of Esther.  I was asked to join a friend in the preview of this study that she was planning on sharing in her ladies Bible study group. Dena did the study and it became very precious to us and a means of spiritual growth. Actually the key players in our “reversal of destiny” include Beth Moore, Charles Stanley and our friend Tammy.

One evening in Beaumont, Alberta the presence of the Lord was very real and the Holy Spirit was at work in a special way. I decided to take my daily prayer walk. I walked to the mail and after picking up the mail, I was impressed to walk the trail in a reverse direction. While doing the prayer walk, I had a strong impression that I was beginning to walk in a reversal of destiny! It was an amazing evening of ministry by the Holy Spirit.

I was reading Charles Stanley’s book, The Ultimate Conversation, at the time and it spoke directly into my life during this time in my life. ADONIA, became a personal revelation to me as my friend was led to pray over me. The Lord became very real to me as my Guide, Provider and Protector. All three were demonstrated to us during a weekend ministry at Fort McMurray in August 2014 and since.

During this season my passion for ministry was renewed from prayer, Bible study and engaging in conversation with my friend about my early years in ministry and God’s faithfulness especially during  my time in Norris Arm South and my recollections of my connection with Pastor Hubert Holloway and the prayer times at Camp Emmanuel

We had thought maybe our ministry journey would bring us back to Alberta. It seemed to be our destiny. Although opportunities for private practise became available and a pilot project to work alongside Pastor Larry Lindoff to provide counselling ministry at Evangel was successful, we became restless and returned to Woodstock in October to wait further direction. On November 22, 2014 Dena and I experienced a spiritual breakthrough, a release from oppression that had bothered us for two years. It became clear we would have to take a step of faith and go forward in our destiny. Our journey would take us back to our home province

A job opportunity opened for me in December and on the 14^th day of the month of January which I will call my month of Adar, (the meaning of this becomes clear in the conclusion of this article) I started my new position as an EAP Counsellor taking up three days of the week. This leaves me with the remainder of the week for private practice in Christian Counselling and Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) teaching. My weekends are free for ministry opportunities in local churches.  One weekend is already booked. Now all that is needed is office space for C4 Professional Services.

This week I had coffee with my former Assistant Pastor that started his ministerial career with me in Grand Falls in 1989. It is interesting to note that when He resigned to move to Mt. Pearl as an Assistant Pastor, I resigned my position to begin a career track towards counselling. Twenty six years later I have come to Mt. Pearl as a Professional Counsellor. Paul is the lead pastor at the city church we plan on attending. Another Assistant Pastor who moved to a staff position in St. John’s when I resigned and moved to the Maritime District is now Lead Pastor in another city Church. So it is great to have the opportunity to re- connected with my former Assistant Pastors Paul and Bruce.

So going back to my meeting over coffee - during our discussion Paul said he knew of an ideal location for me to set up my counselling practice. He gave me a tour and it is unbelievably ideal. I am now waiting final approval which seems inevitable. So it is very likely that Pastor’s Inn Ministries/C4 Professional Services will soon be operating out of Mount Pearl.

Ps.32:8 was a promise I received in 2002 when I left Newfoundland.

I will instruct you and teach you in the way which you should go;
I will counsel you with My eye upon you.

The conclusion of the matter is summed up from page 208 of the study guide on the Book of Esther by Beth Moore from which I will quote.

The Lord is the portion of my inheritance and my cup;
You support my lot.
⁶ The lines have fallen to me in pleasant places;
Indeed, my heritage is beautiful to me.

⁷ I will bless the Lord who has counseled me;

 “Here the lot or portion is an allusion to the way life has worked out; the psalmist is thinking of all the signs of God’s provision which have marked his pilgrimage…..the word had within it the suggestions of destiny.”

In our words, “ Lord in all the chaos and crisis, all the threat and doubts You caused my life to work out. Instead of me falling apart, the lines of my life have fallen together. Truly, I can say that You have given me a delightful inheritance.”

The day we wake up to the goodness of our God and the crushing defeat of the enemy! The day will be a day of joy and feasting…. Esther 9: 19

“…celebrate the fourteenth day of the month Adar, and the fifteenth day ^[k]of the same month, annually, ²² because on those days the Jews ^[l]rid themselves of their enemies, and it was a month which was turned for them from sorrow into gladness and from mourning into a ^[m]holiday; that they should make them days of feasting and rejoicing and sending portions of food to one another and gifts to the poor.

The Journey over the past two years as I said earlier hasn’t been easy but needful it seems in the process of my spiritual and emotional well- being.  Granting forgiveness, confession and asking forgiveness are never easy and in some situations there may be rejection but it is the right thing to do because it is essential for spiritual growth to take place.

God is faithful but we are required to be obedient to His word before we can experience a reversal of destiny.

Until next time

Blessings!

Pastor Harold

Resources: The Ultimate Conversation by Charles Stanley.

                     Esther, It’s Tough Being A Woman by Beth Moore

                     Bible, The New American Standard Version.

 

 

 

Spiritual Health & Emotional Wellness- Substance Abuse

ALCOHOL.

I have taken an interest in following the career path of a student who first interviewed me for a magazine article when he was just fourteen years old. Since then he completed high school. In his graduating year he worked at the local newspaper office. He is now enrolled in a Journalism degree program at a nearby University. This kid has a lot of potential. However, I was very concerned when I read posts on his Face book page saying he has been using alcohol since starting university, something he successfully avoided up until his high school graduation. He claims he has found his tolerance level and feels comfortable with drinking.

I thought about him as I studied for my Addiction Studies Certificate. I can’t help but to wonder if he realizes the risks of becoming involved in the use of alcohol. Does he know he has a “tiger by the tail”.

In this post I will profile this “tiger,” (alcohol). It is the most popular and widely used drug and is considered to be the oldest known sedative/hypnotic and intoxicant. Traditionally it is used as an aesthetic, sedative and sleep inducing properties, religious and celebratory occasions and recreation.

The degree of intoxication from alcohol depend on consumption during a single drinking episode. The early effects of this Central Nervous System depressant is known to elevate activity and disinhibition after 1-3 drinks. Increased doses can cause drowsiness, stupor, coma and death. Other known effects include, blackouts, violence, psychiatric effects. Long term use causes alcoholic dementia, damage to the peripheral nervous system characterized by loss of feeling in the feet and may be accompanied by burning pain and overall difficulty in walking. Cardiovascular damage can occur as it increases blood pressure and interferes in blood clotting increasing the risk of stroke. Gastrointestinal damage occurs from irritation of the stomach’s lining from alcohol. It also increases the risk of cancer. Alcoholics have a high admission rate to psychiatric hospitals and 6 times higher suicide rate than the population average.

Tolerance varies with individuals. Physical dependence is indicated by tolerance and/or withdrawal caused by abstinence. When use is stopped abruptly withdrawal symptoms likely to be experienced include, sweating, racing pulse, tremors, insomnia, nausea, vomiting, hallucinations, agitation and anxiety. More severe symptoms are seizures, delirium tremens (DTs). Withdrawal can be treated in a hospital or detox facility.

Quite a “tiger”
 Until Next Time
Blessings!
Pastor Harold

SPIRITUAL HEALTH & EMOTIONAL WELLNESS - PTSD, Nelson Mandela & Revenue Canada

What is Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)? In answering this question the National Institute of Mental Health states,

“PTSD develops after a terrifying ordeal that involved physical harm or the threat of physical harm. The person who develops PTSD may have been the one who was harmed, the harm may have happened to a loved one, or the person may have witnessed a harmful event that happened to loved ones or strangers.

PTSD was first brought to public attention in relation to war veterans, but it can result from a variety of traumatic incidents, such as mugging, rape, torture, being kidnapped or held captive, child abuse, car accidents, train wrecks, plane crashes, bombings, or natural disasters such as floods or earthquakes.”

Well I am of the opinion that traumatic stress is not limited to physical harm but also includes mental harm and can be brought on by something as simple as losing your job in today’s society.

In any event, Nelson Mandela, who survived both physical and mental trauma has become an international icon and beacon of hope. He is a unique individual largely by his choice not to let the trauma inflicted upon him destroy him, but rather choose to allow it to mound him into a compassionate servant leader. He who is now dead, “yet speaketh”, and may we be inspired by his voice of hope. His example shows us, regardless of injustices, we can make a difference without torching police cars and threatening lives. There is a more noble way. Mandela has shown us that “evil can be overcome by good”.

Thank you Nelson Mandela for your sacrificial life and for your death which has unleashed a tsunami of good news in the media. It is so refreshing to escape the coverage of corruption in the Mayor’s office, the Red Chamber (red with embarrassment these days) and the PMO’s office which should also be glowing red with embarrassment, the PM in particular.

It is so much easier to curse the darkness than to light a candle. I have done my fair share of lamenting over the sociopathic leadership in churches and government, simply because I have been affected by both. But maybe it’s time to be inspired by Mandela to be one voice, one life devoted to change and become more active.

Certainly, there is a need for change in our country. More than anything we need leadership with compassion, not cold insensitive leadership that seems to be the incarnation of the bureaucratic agencies created by government like the Employment Insurance Agency and Revenue Canada to name just two.

Where is the compassion for our soldiers who suffer from PTSD and return home after the trauma of being engaged in a war we didn’t start only to find there is limited access and few resources to help them to cope. Even the resources that could be used are not available because of beauracy.  Help is refused or not available often due to the paper qualifications demanded by National Defense or even Medavie Blue Cross who refuses to pay for mental health care for its clients  unless they see a professional with specific paper credentials, obviously a savings for them at the expense of their clients because of limited availability. A clear case of capital trumping compassion. There is no excuse for months of waiting in order to see a Mental Health Professional. People can receive, and should receive help when they need it. A Master’s or Doctorate degree is not a requirement to give Mental Health First Aid. The Mental Health Commission has trained instructors through Mental Health First Aid Canada, but where is the support of Government or other agencies to promote and pay for the training of the public?

Getting back to Employment Insurance and Revenue Canada. We have the lack of support for people who are victims of stress because of unexpected job loss. Take those in Saskatchewan in the pot ash industry for example. Think for a moment about the trauma and loss of dignity and the stress they will experience at this time of year. But we have Employment Insurance for such emergencies. Now that is one big joke! Fifty five percent of your original income, reduced further if you choose to work for a minimum wage and if you are sixty years old or over and have taken a penalty to claim a pension that you paid into over your working career, be prepared to declare that as income to further reduce your benefits. Revenue Canada is already watching to inform Employment Insurance should you not be aware that it is income you must report. Their computer screens are already fired up and itchy fingers are at the keyboard in anticipation to nail you while their eyes are closed to the criminal element that are robbing our government blind.

Talk about PTSD and the unnecessary trauma and stress imposed on people by agencies that are supposed to help relieve stress in times of crisis. Coupled with leaders that incarnate their lack of concern and compassion there is definitely a need for change. Here I am on the verge of cursing the darkness. Can one voice, one life be a catalysis for change in this country, to make a difference for our soldiers, the person struggling with mental illness, the neighbor who after working all their life time is now further traumatized by government agencies funded by their tax dollars.

Will there be more Mandela’s in this world or after his burial will we go back to wallowing in the mire of the corruption and continue to watch the faces of the corrupted flashed to us daily by the media and try to find solace in the thought, it only happens to the other person. Where is the compassionate, servant leadership needed at all levels of our society. Do you have the spirit of Mandela?  Don’t become a victim of PTSD and buy into the lie that the only way to escape the pain is death by suicide. There is hope there is help, you can make a difference. Rise up!

Until Next Time

Blessings!

Pastor Harold

Spiritual Health & Emotional Wellness - You can't trust leadership to tell the truth"

” You can’t trust leadership to tell the truth”. If I take Senator Mike Duffy at face value, I am living in that day. While it may not be true of all leadership it is certainly true of some.

The recent Senate scandal is a wake- up call to all of us. We need to discern the times in which we live and see how far we have drifted from values like integrity, trust, honesty and the like. Sadly there seems to be a prevailing attitude of “who cares”. Who cares if Prime Ministers or for that matter, Presidents, Mayors, Business executives, Priests or Pastors in leadership can’t be trusted to tell the truth and have no shame in cover ups to deceive the public. It seems to be no big deal as long as they can deliver on bringing success in the form of some type of prosperity. If the numbers are good, if there is something to make us feel good, anything to appeal to our pride, as long as they don’t get caught in their deception, then who cares?  If they, “lie, buy and destroy”, to hold on to power and take care of their self –interests, if they use others as dirt rags and harm the careers of good people in covering up their sins, who cares ?

Well, I don’t know about you, but I do. The dishonest actions of a leader will eventually effect the country and its citizens. History bears witness and will do so again in our time. The same is true in all organizations, secular and religious.

Lying and deception are not new concerning leaders. Good people if they are not held accountable can become corrupted by power and position. We can go back to the days of King David in the nation of Israel to see how power and position without accountability nearly destroyed him. Fortunately there was a voice for righteousness in the land and the King humbled himself to accountability and came clean about his lying scheme to cover up his wrong doing. He was sorry for what he did, not because he got caught but because it was wrong. (Then David said to Nathan, “I have sinned against the Lord.” - the complete story is historically recorded in the Bible- 2 Samuel 11-12).  David however was willing to confess and repent, something that is rarely even considered today and there are very few with the will to stem the tide of wrong doing in today’s society and stand for the truth, demanding accountability from leaders.

So what does this have to do with Spiritual Health and Emotional Wellness? I believe it speaks for itself. A person who grasps after power and will “lie buy and destroy” to hold on to it for selfish interests and pride is both spiritually unhealthy and emotionally unwell.

When corruption and cover up is the order of the day in all institutions and is deemed acceptable by its constituents, it is a true sign our nation is in a state of spiritual sickness and emotional illness.

The only way to change is to start by admitting to having a problem and then to take action to change. David got it right, confession and repentance,  it’s the honorable thing to do, Mr. Prime Minister, Mr. President, Mr. Mayor, Mr. Business Executive, Mr. Priest , Mr. Pastor, Mr. Mrs. Ms.

Until Next Time- Blessings!

Pastor Harold

SPIRITUAL HEALTH & EMOTIONAL WELLNESS - Is Your Leader A Sociopath ?

Is your Leader a Sociopath?

Never take leaders for granted. God allows people to be in leadership positions but it should not be taken for granted that such leaders are emotionally healthy. Some are sociopaths with leadership positions in business, government and religion.

When I was a young soldier in the Canadian Armed Forces, I worked at a hospital in Kingston, Ontario. It was my responsibility to provide care to inmates from the surrounding Federal Penitentiaries. I was amazed by their skills and how they functioned as criminals, some of these inmates were sociopaths. I assumed that all sociopaths were criminals. I have since discovered the truth. Sociopaths can find their way to leadership positions in today’s society in all walks of life including the pulpit.Spiritual healthy and emotional well churches are discerning churches that doesn’t take leaders for granted.

 

The June issue of Psychology Today has an article in it called, “Inside the mind of a Manipulator” it contains the confessions of a sociopath. This article is very enlightening. After reading it I decided to write this article, “Is Your Leader a Sociopath?" 

 I encountered a leader who exhibited personality traits of a sociopath. When I expressed this concern to certain leaders under his leadership, the response was as if I was crazy. They may have assumed as I once did that only criminals can be sociopaths. I witnessed similar characteristics as confessed in the story of, “Confessions of a Sociopath.”

Her story is prefaced by saying, “……people are attracted to my exceptionalism like moths to a flame.”

In what sounded to me as a boasting tone, she states, “Remorse is alien to me. I have a penchant for deceit. I am generally free of entangling and irrational emotions. I am strategic and canny, intelligent and confident, but I also struggle to react appropriately to other people’s confusing and emotion driven social cues.” 

The article claims the silent majority of sociopaths live freely and anonymously, holding down jobs, getting married, having children. The writer also claims, “Sociopaths are highly immune to depression, and the ability to tell ourselves wonderful stories about ourselves helps.” It further says, “Aggression, risk taking, and a lack for one’s own health, or that of others, are hallmarks of sociopathy.” 

Don’t be fooled into thinking only criminals can be sociopaths. Look for the signs. (I have highlighted them in bold print in this article). If it looks like a duck, walks like a duck, swims like a duck and sounds like a duck, it probably is a “sociopath”, ducking behind an appointed leadership role, manipulating with false authority. Churches that lack spiritual discernment are easy prey for such leadership assuming they are appointed by God and they become victims of spiritual abuse. Is your Leader a Sociopath?

Reference: Psychology Today June 2013.

Until next time

Blessings!

Pastor Harold

SPIRITUAL HEALTH & EMOTIONAL WELLNESS: A Healthy Personality.

This is Thanksgiving in Canada, as I write. I received a Thanksgiving greeting this weekend from a friend who also reminded me that I had not blogged since May. Obviously a little bit of encouragement worked, so here I am doing an article which I should have done in June.

Today I will write about the fourth point on the self – compass, strength. You may need to review the previous posts to refresh your memory on the other compass points. I apologise for the lengthy interval.

According to Dan Montgomery, “strength reflects the human need for competence, adequacy, and social visibility”. Things like achievement, drive, enthusiasm, dedication, and perseverance are contributions of strength that enhance a person’s confidence and creativity as a worthwhile human being. The absence of such deprives one of an identity. A manipulative trend occurs when esteem, confidence and a sense of adequacy are turned into controlling, dictating and judging.  This can lead to a narcissistic compulsive disorder and also to psychotic mania. Hence, the need for balance between strength and weakness.  (Uncertainty, vulnerability and soul-searching which can lead to developing humility and empathy for others).

The perfect example for understanding the dynamics of balanced human behaviour is Jesus Christ. In the Good Shepherd we see His love and caring, in the Lion of Judah we see his assertion and courage. In the Lamb of God we see His weakness and humility, In the Prince of Peace we see His strength and esteem. The rhythm of His personality prevented Him from being stuck on any one point of the self-compass. He gives us an example to follow but we need help to achieve this balance.

 Compass Therapy was developed by Dan Montgomery to redeem self-defeating rigidity that is perpetuated by being stuck on various compass points.  It offers a dynamic set of checks and balances to help develop wholeness while navigating through life.  According to one counsellor, the self- compass shows people how they’re put together so they can learn to live together.

This completes the four points on the self-compass, Love, Assertion, Weakness and Strength.  Love forms the virtue of caring. Assertion, the virtue of courage, Weakness the virtue of humility and Strength, the virtue of esteem. The counterbalancing virtues of caring and courage, and humility and esteem develop in us when we honor the LAWS of personality and relationships.

  I hope you have gained valuable insight from these posts on the Laws of personality and relationships, may they serve to be valuable to you in giving direction for your human and spiritual growth.

For more information  visit, www.compasstherapy.com

Reference: Christian Counselling That Really Works/Dan Montgomery

Until next time,

Blessings!

Pastor Harold

SPIRITUAL HEALTH & EMOTIONAL WELLNESS: A Healthy Personality.

I have been talking about the “LAWS” of personality as outlined by Dr. Dan & Kate Montgomery in the Self-Compass.www.CompassTherapy.com We talked about Love and Assertion, we now come to the third point on the compass; Weakness. Next time we will talk about Strength.

 

“Trouble brings with it a bucketful of emotions: despair, hurt, revenge, self-pity, anger, sorrow, and a dozen other feelings. If we are not careful, those feelings can dominate us and disorient us from what we know. Emotions derail our thoughts and detour our commitments. How we feel tends to distort what we know.” Joseph M. Stowell.

I can attest to this.This past year I had the bucket of emotions that trouble brings dumped on me.  When we find ourselves in the place where our feelings distort what we know, we risk getting stuck on the “weakness” point of the self-compass.

Weakness can be associated with the virtue of humility which is fine when in rhythm with the other compass points of Love, Strength and Assertion, but if we get stuck on the weakness point we risk the manipulative trend of becoming withdrawn, which unchecked can lead to an avoidant , schizoid disorder. Coupled with depression from dependency it can lead to the psychoses condition called schizophrenia depression.

People stuck on the weakness point of the self-compass are convinced of their own helplessness. The most common feeling associated with this withdrawn state is sadness. Pain is avoided through sleeping, procrastinating or going around in a daze. They become hypersensitive.  Preoccupied with feelings of inferiority, panic, self – pity, fear and insecurity they avoid any kind of risk and go into an emotional cocoon. Usually they shut down in social situations and gain relief by being alone.

“Life is a party they can never attend”, according to Dan Montgomery.

People stuck on the weakness point of the compass need counselling to help them activate their strength, assertion, and love compass points.

If you become a victim to trouble and find yourself getting stuck on the weakness point there is hope. There is always available the trusted resource of God’s Word. Its truth in our time of pain gives an advantage, an edge in trouble, a unique edge to which we can cling.

 Stowell says, “Our resource in pain is not what we feel but rather what we know.” He also states, “Our assurance is that whether in pleasure or in pain, God is able to bring about that which is good as we respond constructively.”

^“And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.” Romans 8:28. NIV.

This we know,

Until next time

Blessings!

Pastor Harold

www.pastorsinnministries.com

SPIRITUAL HEALTH & EMOTIONAL WELLNESS- A Healthy Personality.

Dr. Dan Montgomery in his work; Compass Therapy refers to the LAWS of a healthy personality as: Love, Assertion, Weakness and Strength.  When operating in balance there is a rhythm that was perfectly modeled by Jesus. We should strive to follow His model.

 Last time we took a look at Love. In this article we will explore Assertion. Both points need to be in balance for a healthy personality. I agree with Montgomery when he says, “assertion imparts the courage to express one’s point of view, challenge unfairness, and resist exploitation or manipulation.”  This quality is supressed in religious and political circles when a leader in a position of authority views it as a threat to his/her authority.  They place people on a guilt trip by implying that assertiveness demonstrates a lack of love or loyality. This kind of leadership style is used to deny people the opportunity to negotiate for one’s reasonable rights, and to express one’s self. Just ask some of the members of the Federal PC caucus  or former  members of Margaret Thatcher's government.

Montgomery states, “all people experience bouts of anger or discontent, when their interests rub against the wishes of others.”  He suggests that assertion be expressed in tandem with caring or love to raise the probability of successful conflict resolution.  Conflict will remain unresolved where opportunity to express one’s self is denied or if it is expressed without caring. A healthy organism and organization is one with a balance between love and assertion and as we will see later a balance between strength and weakness.

A dependency trend occurs when love is over exaggerated manifested by pleasing and placating. It may also foster a state of depression. On the other hand over exaggerated assertion leads to an aggression trend manifested by blaming and resentment which in the extreme becomes paranoia. So it is unhealthy to be stuck on either one of these points.

People with an aggressive trend according to Montgomery exhibit feelings of bitterness, hatred and spite. If they don’t get their way, they make plans to get even and hold grudges for years. They display a lack of trust and they are famous for abusing others without feeling guilty. Stubbornness and pride are built into the aggressive trend. Their views are always right. They are suspicious of anyone who might teach them something. They are masters of controlling people through anger and take offense over the slightest issue. On the other hand they can be quite charming if it gets them what they want. They see compromise as a sign of weakness therefore they are unwilling to give in even on trivial issues. Montgomery claims if they are religious they serve God by threatening people so they will obey.

I can only imagine the discomfort of working for or living with such a person, not to mention the tyranny that would exist under the leadership of a person stuck on this personality trait.

Next we will explore the tension between the other two points that make up the LAWS of personality- Weakness and Strength, as we complete the profile of a healthy personality.

Until next time

Blessings!

Pastor Harold

SPIRITUAL HEALTH & EMOTIONAL WELLNESS: Laws of Personality

In preparation for a retreat at Gander NL in May, I have been reading and researching the subject of “relationships”. These are the three dynamics that I believe affect relationship matters: 1. Personality. 2. Perspective. 3. Protection. Personality is about “being”, (who we are). Perspective is about “seeing”, (our point of view) and Protection is about “doing”, (taking action). In this blog I am writing about who we are, our personality and how it is a factor in our relationships.

Dan Montgomery in his work, Compass Therapy, charts the personality by using four points on a compass. The acronym LAWS is used. L- Love, A- assertion, W- weakness, S- strength.  When all four are in balance it creates a rhythm for a healthy personality. Unlike Jesus of Nazareth, who is the only one who inhabited this earth with a perfect personality, we struggle. We can find ourselves stuck on one or more of the compass points.

Montgomery points out the tension that exists with the “LAWS” of personality. Love verses Assertion, Weakness verses Strength.  One is not better than the other, the key is balance.  For example a person with a healthy personality can be tender and caring as well as diplomatically assertive. S/He can be competent and confidently strong as well as humbly aware of his or her weakness. The degree to which these characteristics or “LAWS” of personality are out of balance determines a person’s maladaptive trends. Taken to the extreme it can result in disorders at best and psychoses at worst.

Let’s take as the first point on the compass- Love.

Love reflects a person’s caring and tenderness as seen in kindness, thoughtfulness, consideration of others, forgiving, compassionate and sacrificing. However, a healthy personality must also include assertion. A person has a need to express one’s point of view, the responsibility to challenge injustice, unfairness, exploitation, manipulation, bullying and the like. Diplomatic assertion preserves reasonable rights, solicits mature coping skills and can contribute to successful conflict resolution.

To be stuck on the love compass point and out of balance with assertion will produce a pleaser pattern.  Montgomery says, “The pleaser pattern exaggerates the need for love and approval at the expense of self-expression”.

The virtues of love can be caring, nurturing and forgiving, but without assertiveness it can turn into a maladaptive trend of dependency exhibited by pleasing and placating. Unaddressed it can result in a dependent histrionic disorder and develop into state of depression .

Next time we will look at " A"-ssertion.

Until next time,

Blessings!

Pastor Harold

SPIRITUAL HEALTH & EMOTIONAL WELLNESS: How Pride and Humility can affect your Spiritual Health and Emotional Wellness.

Just as humiliation can hurt the pride of a nation resulting in retaliation or a reaction of defiance, it can have the same effect on an individual. The operative word is pride. The ancient writings or the Christian Bible identifies its origin as well as its consequences. Isaiah records the five “I wills” exercised by Lucifer, more commonly known as the devil, as he rebelled against God. This exercise of his will against God’s will, give us a revelation of pride. Isaiah 14:12-14 KJV.

Webster College Dictionary defines pride as: · spirit of conceit or superior worth (a negative quality) · a spirit of pleasing satisfaction or proper self-worth (a positive quality) In Greek, the word huperephanos means "arrogant, proud or appearing above others." (huper means above, phaino means to appear) . The Apostle Paul presents it as a negative quality in a letter to Timothy. "People will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money boastful, proud, abusive, disobedient to their parents, ungrateful, unholy." (2 Timothy 3:2). The antithesis of pride is humility. Leland Beaumont describes humility as: “A quiet and sincere confidence that comes from a realistic appraisal of your stature that recognizes you are doing well, while recognizing your shortcomings. It is an incentive to continue to learn, improve, and do more. Self esteem is aligned with authentic stature and is judged to be satisfactory and with room for improvement within a humble person. Humility reduces our need for self-justification and allows us to admit to and learn from our mistakes.” Peter comments on God’s view on Pride and Humility. “God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.” 1Peter 5:6 (NIV).  Jesus is the epitome of humility. His “kenosis” or self- emptying is captured in Philippians 2:5-11.  There is an important distinction I need to point out between humility and humiliation. There is no pride in humility. However pride is the catalysis for retaliation in humiliation. I like Beaumont’s description of humiliation: “An image change reflecting a decrease in what others believe about your stature. A public humiliation is the result of an insult and is generally painful enough to provoke anger. If you believe the insult is justified, then the humiliation may result in shame rather than anger. Synonyms include losing face, feeling foolish, hurt, and disgraced.”  David prior to becoming the King of Israel, during his wilderness survival, was humiliated by Nabal (his name means “fool”). His pride was hurt to the point he became full of himself and had it not been for the intervention of Nabal’s wife, a wise and beautiful woman named Abigail, the outcome would have been disastrous. Her intervention changed the course of David’s life, the life of Israel and to some degree your life and mine.( You can find the complete story in 1 Samuel 25. I suggest you read it.) I read it recently and reaped the therapeutic benefit of being released from guilt that resulted from my prideful reaction to humiliation from a modern day “Nabal”. Like David I had shown kindness and gracefulness, only to be repaid with a “slap in the face”. My “Nabal” humiliated me by misrepresenting me with his reports about me to his master. Had it not been for intervention by my “Abigail”, a wise and beautiful woman, my ministrycareer would have ended in a disaster. I have an indelible image in my mind; it’s ugly. Thankfully, because of Divine intervention I can now plead; “Not guilty” your Honor, Jesus has removed my guilt. I know I am forgiven and have forgiven my offender. Otherwise this story would have more “punch” and color. In concluding let me give a summary of the negative effects of pride.  It promotes self-righteousness, looks down on others, does not admit wrong, points out the faults of others performs religious deeds before others. Not only does it affect our Spiritual Health and Emotional Wellness it is also detrimental to our physical heath, contributing to high blood pressure, stomach and back problems due to stress.  Humility on the other hand contributes positively to our Spiritual Health and Emotional Wellness. According to Leland Beaumont, “ Humility reinforces self-esteem, self-respect and self-worth. Humility does not seek justification. Humility does not disparage, minimize or marginalize. Humility does not condescend. Humility is free of contempt. Humility is patient and kind. Humility champions and supports the individual. Humility readies the individual for service. Humility empowers with wisdom. Humility gently reveals power through change.” I am so grateful for the Biblical full disclosure of David’s humanity and God’s grace. It gives me hope because the story is not about David or me, the story is about God and our place in it.

Next time I will introduce the LAWS of Personality.

Until next time.

Blessings!

Pastor Harold

SPIRITUAL HEALTH & EMOTIONAL WELLNESS - Pride and Humilty Affects Individuals and Nations

 

 

Humility and Pride affects Spiritual Health and Emotional Wellness of individuals and nations.

Have you ever known of someone who presumed to speak on your behalf, conveying a message that you did not give or words you did not say and then to have the audacity to manipulate the words you did say to serve themselves and discredit you?  We would consider such an act to be offensive.  Taking it to a higher level, can you even imagine the ramifications when one offends the name of God by presuming to speak on God’s behalf conveying a message as if God had given them the authority to speak on His behalf when in reality they are using those words to promote their own agenda? God and God’s word are sometimes treated with such frivolity. An attitude of disrespect for the Holy exists in the land and often promoted by politicians, preachers, and others who are, driven by their own selfish agendas in their quest for power and prosperity.

I recently read, “The Harbinger”, by Jonathan Cahn. I found it intriguing and sobering. From a practical perspective it increased my knowledge of American history. Shame on me, but I wasn’t aware that New York City was the first capitol of the United States of America. Nor did I know that Saint Paul’s Chapel on the corner of “Ground Zero”, which survived the collapse of the Twin Towers, was the place where George Washington and Congress worshiped and dedicated the nation to God when the first President of the United States was inaugurated.  I wasn’t even familiar with how “Wall Street” got its name. The spiritual aspect was sobering as I learned about the eerie similarities between Isaiah 9:10-11 and the events and aftermath of September 11, 2001. I encourage you to read, The Harbinger.

Getting back to my opening comments, two high ranking leaders in the United States quoted Isaiah 9:10 in relation to the terrorist attack on the country. While we may have viewed the mention of Scripture by such high ranking politicians as noble, like them, we were blinded by what was really going on. Quoting from the Scripture, making reference to Isaiah 10: 9 as God’s Word, they then used it to try and rally the people to hope in the aftermath of 9/11.and to offer comfort to America. In other words they took the tragedy and God’s word to articulate a message to serve their own purposes. Most people embraced it as a good thing without knowledge of the truth behind it.

May I point out that it is a very dangerous thing to presume to speak on behalf of God a message that is not from him and to offend Him by manipulating it to serve your own agenda. It is one thing to misrepresent man, but it is catastrophic to misrepresent God. It is equally as wrong to mistake a warning from God and its intended purpose as an act of evil.  This lesson can be taken from the lives of the two leaders of the United States of America who gave the historical speeches I previously referred to. Senate Majority Leader Daschle, September 12, 2001 and Presidential candidate John Edwards, September 11, 2004.  Later the two became victims of scandal.

In Isaiah 10:9 the leaders of Israel were responding to a warning by God, which was given to them as an opportunity to repent and turn back to Him. Instead of acting in humility, they stood up in the spirit of defiance and with arrogance and pride, proclaimed that they would overcome in their own strength. This same approach of arrogance pride and defiance was used by the United States used after 911.

Christians who are not grounded in the Word of God may have the same reaction to adversity or tragedy. They blame on the evil what  God intended to use as a warning for them to return to Him, and in arrogant defiance rise up in this spirit (mistaken for the Holy Spirit) and proclaim victory and project bigger and better to satisfy their own agenda not God’s.

" Pride goes before a fall and a haughty spirit before destruction”, so said King Solomon thousands of years ago, a message from God which has proven to be true.

Like the Nation of Israel and the United States, we have a tendency in times of crisis to turn to God in prayer, but fail to humble ourselves and turn from our wicked ways. Before long we take pride in our self-sufficiency and continue in our wicked ways without any repentance. In such perilous times  we need to turn to God, as prescribed in  2 Chronicles 7:14.

 “ if My people who are called by My name will humble themselves, and pray and seek My face, and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin and heal their land.”

I will continue with the topic of pride and humility and its effect on our emotional wellness and spiritual health in my next post.

Until next time

Blessings!

Pastor Harold.

SPIRITUAL HEALTH & EMOTIONAL WELLNESS- Reader responds to "Bullying Series".

My December Post will be about how Pride and Humility affects the Spiritual Health and Emotional Wellness of individuals and the nation.

Today I am sharing this story from a follower of my blog. Maybe you have a similar story you would like to share with me.

READER RESPONDS TO BULLYING SERIES WITH A BITTER/SWEET STORY

She STOOD UP TO HER BULLY AND THE ORGANISATION. Although she won the case there was Permanent damage to her career. Eventually the boss was terminated of his position

"just read your bullying latest.... i was a victim of this type of bullying/harassment and had to actually walk out of my job two years ago. My boss and two members of the board of directors fit the Jekyll and Hyde statements you made. Fortunately I documented everything that occurred in the four years i was employed there and was able to successfully win an harassment case. Unfortunately my career was cut short, the compensation received was only for three months salary and the staff and board continued on. I often had to relive my times at the place of employment as the harassment case was fought. It has ruined my career and thrust me into early retirement. Eventually the boss was terminated of his position. When reading your latest update today, confirmed that I was subject to this. I would love to advocate for anyone going through the same and hopefully one day I can help someone in a similar situation.

I wish you all the best in this ministry you are doing!"

I hope this will encourage someone going through this type of an experience. If you would like this person to an advocate for you, just contact me and I will connect you.

Until next time

Blessings!

Pastor H

Bullying by Clergy-EPILOGUE

A friend of mine was instructing water safety at a summer camp. He was supposed to demonstrate the proper way to get into a canoe. In the process of getting into the canoe he capsized it. Recovering from the embarrassing ordeal he said to the laughing onlookers, “Now that is how not to get into a canoe.”

As an epilogue to my series on bullying by clergy, I decided to leave you with a case history of “How Not to Deal with a Bullying Complaint.” It is based on a real incident so I will give concise facts.

1.       Complaint is filed in accordance with employment policy.

2.       The accusation is about acts of bullying and harassment against the employer experienced and witnessed by the complainant.

3.       The Board of Directors strike a committee of the Board to deal with the complaint.

4.       No policy in place to deal with a complaint of this nature so a higher authority is consulted on how to proceed.

5.       A meeting is called and the complainant and the accused are invited to appear before the committee. The accused decided not to appear and briefed the committee of his decision before the meeting.

6.       The meeting proceeded and the complaint was presented.

7.       At the conclusion of the meeting the complainant requested protection because he was a whistle blower against his employee. (Request was not granted).

8.       The accused responded to the written complaint with an email.

9.       The complainant requested an opportunity to respond to the email in person. (Request was denied).

10.   The accused remained in his position during the investigation of the complaint. The complainant was required to work under his authority.

11.   The accused was in direct contact with the committee during the investigation.

12.   The accused contacted people who were party to the complaint and questioned them on the matter. One person was requested to write the Board of Directors in his support.

13.   The committee issued a letter concerning their findings during their investigation.

14.   The Complainant met with the chair to receive the findings. Objections were raised concerning the process and certain contents of the letter. No opportunity was given to express these concerns to the Board of Directors and a formal request was not honored. No action was taken against the accused.

15.   The complainant decided not to appeal. The issue remained unresolved.

AFTERMAT.

Within 4-10 months after the complaint was filed the department that was headed by the complainant was abolished. Two of the employees implicated in the complaint as victims were let go. The other party, who resigned in the process, withdrew the resignation, wrote a letter to the board of directors in support of the employer and is still employed. The action was initiated by the accused and it appears to have the approval of the Board of Directors and their Superior Officers in the organization. What’s wrong with this picture?????? Post your comment.

WHAT A TRAVESTY OF JUSTICE!!!!!

Maybe someone would like to email me a policy on how to deal with a complaint of bullying the right way. I will be glad to forward it to this particular organization which desperately needs direction in this type of a matter.

Pastor H