From the Pastor’s Pen
Dr. Carlos D. Williams, Senior Pastor
As we commence Mental Health Awareness Month, it is vitally important that we monitor and manage our stress levels. The Bible is sufficient for showing how we become Christians, but also for teaching us how to live as Christians. So sufficient are the scriptures, they equip us with how to positively affect our emotional health and wellness.
Stress is real, and if not managed properly, it can be detrimental to your physical, mental, and spiritual wellbeing. Some signs of stress are physical exhaustion, headaches, ulcers, low levels of infection-fighting antibodies, spiritual exhaustion, depression, mood swings, desired solitude or withdrawal, and bad eating habits. I am sure this list is longer, but these are glaring examples.
Overcoming Stress
St. Matthew 6:25-34, I Peter 5:7
In overcoming stress, we need to understand it and recognize it when it occurs. There are many synonyms for stress in the Bible, such as anxiety, worry, tension, and pressure. God’s will for the believer regarding stress and its synonyms is simply that we don’t stress!! It is not becoming of a believer to stress nor be consumed with the distracting cares of this world. We even tend to let little things become stressors, such as traffic jams, delayed flights, and long lines. We must pay close attention to those stressors and not allow them to overtake us.
Practically, to reduce those stressors, you can do things such as:
• Go to bed on time
• Allow extra time to do things and get to places.
• Delegate tasks to others.
• Take one day at a time.
• Get enough exercise
• Eat right and listen to relaxing music.
• Find some fun hobbies.
Spiritually, counter your frustration with faith by praying regularly (I Thessalonians 5:17). Trust that God knows what you need before you ask (Matthew 6:32) and thank God as an expression of faith in his providence and power (I Thessalonians 5:18).
Remember, God wants to take on your anxieties and cares (I Peter 5:17). Worry, stress, frustrations, or cares are not God’s will for the believer (Matthew 6:25-34). Finally, we must remember there are no limits to what God can handle (Genesis 18:14, Matthew 19:26). Feed your faith and starve your doubts and worries to death!!
“Beyond the Smile: Real Talk About Adult Mental Health”
Mental health is an essential part of overall wellbeing, yet many adults struggle silently with challenges such as stress, anxiety, depression, and burnout. Between work responsibilities, family obligations, financial pressures, and life transitions, adulthood can feel overwhelming at times. While these struggles are common, they should not be ignored. Addressing mental health with intention and care is key to living a balanced and fulfilling life.
One of the most common mental health issues adults face is chronic stress. Deadlines, job demands, and personal responsibilities can create a constant sense of pressure. Over time, this stress can lead to anxiety, sleep problems, irritability, and even physical health issues. Depression is another significant concern, often marked by feelings of sadness, lack of motivation, and disconnection from activities once enjoyed. Many adults also experience burnout, especially when they feel emotionally exhausted and unsupported.
Learning how to cope effectively begins with awareness. Recognizing when something feels “off” mentally or emotionally is the first step toward change. Ignoring these signs can allow problems to grow, but acknowledging them opens the door to healing. Adults should give themselves permission to pause and evaluate their mental and emotional state regularly.
Healthy coping strategies are essential for managing mental health. Establishing routines that include adequate sleep, balanced nutrition, and regular physical activity can improve both mood and energy levels. Exercise, even in simple forms like walking, has been shown to reduce stress and increase overall well-being. Additionally, setting boundaries— whether at work or in personal relationships— helps prevent emotional overload and protects mental space.
Another powerful coping tool is connection. Talking with a trusted friend, family member, mentor, or counselor can provide
support and perspective. Many adults feel pressure to “handle everything” on their own, but seeking help is not a weakness—it is a proactive step toward health. Professional counseling or therapy can also offer practical strategies for managing thoughts, emotions, and behaviors.
Mindfulness practices such as prayer, meditation, and deep breathing can help calm the mind and reduce anxiety. These moments of stillness allow individuals to reset and regain focus during stressful times. Engaging in hobbies, creative outlets, or activities that bring joy can also serve as a mental and emotional release.
Ultimately, coping with mental health challenges as an adult requires intentional effort and ongoing care. It is important to remember that mental health is just as important as physical health. By prioritizing selfcare, seeking support, and developing healthy coping habits, adults can build resilience and navigate life’s challenges with greater strength and clarity.
“The
Silent Struggle:Understanding Youth Mental Health Challenges Today”
Taking care of your mental health is just as important as taking care of your body—especially as a young person growing up in today’s fast-moving, always-connected world. Between school, friendships, family expectations, and social media, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. The good news is that there are real, practical ways you can cope and stay mentally strong.
First, pay attention to how you’re feeling. If you’re stressed, anxious, or just not yourself, don’t ignore it. Your emotions are signals, not weaknesses. Take a moment to pause and ask yourself what’s really going on. Writing in a journal, listening to music, or just sitting quietly can help you process what you’re feeling instead of bottling it up.
You don’t have to go through anything alone. Talking to
someone you trust—like a parent, teacher, coach, or friend—can make a huge difference. It might feel awkward at first, but opening up can bring relief and help you see things from a different perspective. Asking for help isn’t a sign of weakness; it’s a sign of strength.
Your daily habits matter more than you think. Getting enough sleep, eating well, and staying active can improve your mood and energy. Even something simple like going for a walk, playing a sport, or taking a break from your phone can help clear your mind. Social media can sometimes make you feel like you’re not enough, so it’s okay to step away and protect your peace.
When things feel overwhelming, try simple ways to calm yourself. Take deep breaths, pray, meditate, or focus on something
positive. These small actions can help you reset and regain control of your thoughts.
Remember, you’re still growing and figuring things out—and that’s okay. You won’t have everything perfect, and you don’t need to. What matters is that you keep going, take care of yourself, and know that your mental health matters.
PORTRAITS OF FAITH: BROTHER CHARLES BRIGGINS, SR.
By: Minister Jo Anita Miley
Singing is a way to express the truth about God. Singing also helps us to remember facts about God from his word and to join with fellow Christians in our local church in praise to God for all He is and all He has done through Christ. For many, it is a calling.
Brother Charles Briggins, Sr., 95, said what he enjoys most about serving God is spreading the Gospel through music. He loves to sing. His voice can be recognized from the very first sounds, even with closed eyes. He has in his arsenal bass and baritone; and, of course, the voice of an angel.
A native of Shelby County, near Birmingham, Ala., Brother Briggins gave his life to Christ when he was 11 years old and has been walking with the Lord for 84 years. He emphasizes what he enjoys most about serving God is spreading the Gospel through music. He joined First Missionary Baptist in 1951 and immediately began serving in the Brotherhood and Music ministries. He was the Director of the Male Chorus
for 13 years and still sings in several choirs within the music ministry.
A smile is a powerful expression of God’s love and joy that can uplift and inspire others. Meeting someone with a smile is the simplest yet most captivating thing you can do to encourage someone else. Brother Briggins is the type of person who seems to have a smile for everyone he meets within the congregation, a powerful expression of love and connection to Gods people.
For Brother Briggins, being a seasoned Christian means an individual has experienced trials, temptations and hardship on their faith journey, but still holds on to their faith and belief in God. He has persevered through life's trials, tribulations, and temptations with a melodic song in his heart and become an anchor of faith for his family and friends alike; often sharing his testimony to encourage others.
One of the greatest difficulties Brother Briggins said he has faced on his faith journey was in 2024, when he had some serious health issues. His most memorable faith experience since becoming a Christian is overcoming a recent stroke and seeing how far God has brought him. Prior to his stroke, he would always encourage young people to get involved in church
and community. One of the greatest challenges he’s seen within First Missionary Baptist since becoming a member was our recent pastoral situation. He believes our church has always had great leadership.
For Brother Briggins, singing is a way to express the truth about God and a tool God uses to change us from the inside out. Although his health concerns have somewhat limited his ability to serve, he has remained an active member in several ministries within the congregation. Prior to his having a stroke, he prayed and read the bible every morning and was always eager to share his testimony and witness to others of what God has done for him. As his health improves, he hopes to continue to sing and tell people of the love of God and how he will sustain you in great adversity.
Brother Briggins left this advice for the next generation of Christians: “The Christian walk requires endurance and perseverance when faced with challenges,” Briggins. A mature Christian understands that difficult times are going to happen but chooses to rely on God’s strength rather than their own. A mature Christian trusts in this truth despite what may be happening around them.”
PORTRAITS OF FAITH: REVEREND ALBERT CHARLES
By: Minister Jo Anita Miley
The call to preach is a sacred and weighty responsibility entrusted to those chosen to be messengers of God. It requires deep commitment, humility, integrity, and a continual reliance on the Holy Spirit to faithfully proclaim God’s Word to a world in need of salvation. While the message of the gospel remains unchanging, generations inevitably bring shifts in culture, worship styles, and theological perspectives. For mature believers, this often means adapting to new methods while remaining firmly grounded in biblical truth.
Preachers today face significant challenges as cultural changes sometimes conflict with longstanding biblical principles. Yet, for Reverend Albert Charles, age 93, remaining faithful in a changing world has never been optional—it has been essential. His journey with Christ began 87 years ago at Peaceful Rest Missionary Baptist Church in Beaumont, Texas, when he was just six years old. From that moment forward, his commitment to God has remained unwavering, anchored in a steadfast faith that has endured decades of change.
As a child, Reverend Charles’ mother, a choir member, ensured he sat on the front pew each Sunday so she could keep an eye on him. On the
day of his salvation, however, she happened to sit behind him. When the invitation to discipleship was extended, he felt the Spirit urging him to respond. Obediently, he stood, gave his hand to the pastor, and surrendered his life to Christ. From that point on, his family played a vital role in nurturing his faith, guiding him through life’s challenges. Through it all, Jesus Christ remained the one constant in his life.
After high school, Reverend Charles left home and served in various civilian and military roles, including deployment to Japan during the Vietnam War. In 1971, he joined First Missionary Baptist Church under the leadership of Reverend Dr. Julius Scruggs while stationed at Redstone Arsenal. Following his retirement from the Army in 1977, he continued serving through federal employment.
Reverend Charles credits Pastor Scruggs as his first ministry mentor. When he sensed a call to preach, Pastor Scruggs advised him to pray and pursue theological training. Though his demanding career delayed his entry into ministry, the calling never left him. Eventually, he preached his first sermon at his home church in Beaumont and was licensed soon after. Later, in Huntsville, he served at Mt. Olive Baptist Church, where he was ordained under Reverend
Elijah Pinchon in July 1990.
Throughout his life, Reverend Charles has witnessed many changes within the church. He approaches preaching with seriousness and caution, resisting trends that prioritize style over substance. He believes many modern messages fail to emphasize the sufficiency of Christ, often presenting “new” revelations that are not grounded in Scripture. He points to John 5:17, which reminds believers that God is always at work—not in novelty, but in the fulfillment already accomplished through Jesus Christ. The greatest “new” act of God, he affirms, was the establishment of the new covenant through Christ.
Even now, despite residing in Beaumont due to health concerns, Reverend Charles remains actively connected to his church family. Through virtual services, he continues to be encouraged by Pastor Carlos Williams’ preaching and stays engaged with ministry efforts.
His message to the next generation is clear: ministry is lifelong and multi-generational. Though methods may change with age, the calling does not. Every believer has a role in sharing the gospel, making disciples, and contributing to the body of Christ. No one is ever too old to be used by God.
