Family Feature

Welcome to 2024!  

My name is Anna White and I come to WCC this year as Director of Student Wellbeing.  I am delighted to have joined this faith-filled community and have already been enormously blessed by such a warm and encouraging welcome.  What a privilege we have been entrusted with!? 

Secular research continues to confirm that gratitude is one of the best ways we can support our mental wellbeing.  What I love about this, is that this has been God's heart all along!  In 1 Thessalonians chapter 5:16-18, Paul exalts believers to “Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus.”  Scripture reflects this principle and command throughout.

We only have to look at the example of the apostle Paul, to see that despite incredible hardship, he was still able to push forward in his mission, support the church and even sing praises to God, along with Silas and others, in jail! (See Acts 16:25). In every circumstance, we have the choice to dwell on what is difficult and stressful, or focus on our many blessings and our wonderful God.  There is so much for which to be thankful!

This does not, however, negate the need to empathise and validate what our children or others close to us are going through.  Life can be tough and anxiety real and troubling.  Jesus showed compassion to those in need.  In the well-known shortest verse in the Bible, 'Jesus wept' (John 11:35), showing his care and concern for Mary and Martha in their overwhelming grief following the passing of their dear brother Lazarus.  Even though Jesus knew the final outcome, that he would raise Lazarus from the dead, he was not immune from the pain and suffering of those around him.

In Philippians Chapter 4:6-7, Paul exhorts us to ‘not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.’  Christ longs to take our burdens (see 1 Peter 5:7 and Matt 11:28-30) and replace them with His help and peace!  What a reason to be thankful!  Let us pray that we, too, can find this balance.  Supporting those in their struggles, with deep empathy and care, whilst committing our burdens to the Lord, together with thanksgiving.  

Have a blessed and thankful year ahead!

Anna White (Director of Student Wellbeing)