“The Lord is near to the broken-hearted and saves the crushed in spirit.”
– Psalm 34:18
You may remember that it was in January of last year that a young man in our congregation took his own life. Joey Drelich, Jr. joined the church as part of the Confirmation Class in 2019, went on the VIM Trip that summer, and was a freshman at Hunterdon Central. Active in hockey and scouting, Joey had many interests and friends and a family that cares deeply for his well-being. We had 800 people come through our church building to honor his life on the day of his funeral. He is beloved by God, by his family and friends, and by his church family.
On the evening of Tuesday, January 19, the one-year anniversary of the night Joey felt such despair, his family – Joe, Betsy, Grace, and Michael – and I will gather outside the church. On the sidewalk lined with luminarias beside a banner which reads, “Let’s Shine God’s Light on the Stigma Surrounding Mental Health Issues – YOU ARE NOT ALONE, YOU DO MATTER – in memory of Joseph Drelich, Jr.,” we will pray together.
Please, wherever you are that evening, say a prayer for Joey’s family and friends and for all people who are broken-hearted and crushed in spirit. At 5:30 p.m. that evening, we will also ring the church bell, along with other faith communities, in remembrance of those from Flemington Borough and Raritan Township who have died from Covid-19.
As you pause and pray on the 19th, ask God to be near to all who grieve, that they would find what they need to bring them to a place of hope. We are to be that light and support for one another. And, please, if you struggle, reach out to let someone know – a family member or friend, a Deacon, or me, your pastor.
Remember that each of us is beloved by God, unique in this life, and cared about by this faith community. Let us work to be a place of welcome for those who struggle so we can support one another by offering the healing love of God.
Yours in Christ’s Love,
Rev Amy