“Connecticut massacre gunman described as awkward loner who felt no pain” (FoxNews.com, 12/16/12). We are now learning the story of a 20 year old man who was on the “outside” of his social group and whose extreme isolating behaviors had concerned the staff at his High School a few years before. He was also subject to the upheaval of his parents’ divorce in 2008, but what had driven him to bring fatal violence to the heart of his community, and to himself, at this time? There are unconfirmed reports that the gunman was to have been committed to a psychiatric institution by his mother, and that the killing spree was his reaction to the news.
Speaking at a memorial service for the victims, President Obama said that for these tragedies to end “we need to change.” According to the National Institute for Mental Health, approximately 26% of the U.S. adult population has a diagnosable mental health disorder. These numbers increase among low-income families, with studies showing 32% of individuals with low incomes report issues with depression, anxiety, and other mental health problems. There are many reasons for this, not the least of which is our culture itself, which facilitates – and sometimes celebrates – independence and isolation from one another and from our Creator.
The solution is found in deeply-seated spiritual and emotional healing. We are a disconnected people who have lost their way, personally and collectively. We run from our feelings of anxiety and inadequacy, lacking the courage to face them squarely, needing faith that God will help us to overcome our problems as we submit ourselves to his design for our lives. Our mission at Fountain Gate is to help people find rest from the conflicts they experience within themselves and with others, and, for those who desire it, to discover the love of God expressed through his son Jesus Christ.
In 2012 Fountain Gate has had the opportunity to provide 4500 sessions of counseling (a 42% increase over 2011) to 301 individuals, 100 couples, and 34 families. In addition, we provided 32 therapeutic and educational workshops for 180 participants. This year also saw the start of Fountain Gate Gardens , a community project promoting healthy lifestyles, and offering opportunities for personal connection with others. In 2013 we anticipate continued growth in our counseling and gardening programs, while we also hope to branch out into new areas, such as services to veterans, and retreats on a variety of spiritual and mental health topics.
We are grateful for the opportunities we have had to serve the people who have come to us – from 9 counties in the metro Atlanta area – and we are grateful for the support and encouragement we have received from so many. Over forty leaders from churches, schools, businesses, and city, county, and state governments have visited our facilities this year, and have strongly endorsed our vision and our work. What a wonderful experience to connect with others who have a heart for the well-being of our community!
Please hold us in your thoughts and prayers as we walk with others in their journeys toward healing and wholeness. In our personal and societal brokenness, the prescription for many is a listening ear in a safe environment – it’s an introduction to unconditional love, made possible only by the grace of God.
May the peace of Christ and the comfort of God reign in our hearts during this time and season.
Craig Torell
Executive Director
