AUGUSTA, Ga. () — Mental health influences every aspect of our lives, and a local church is taking the initiative in offering resources and support. Tabernacle Baptist Church is hosting its fourth annual Mental Health Fair. “Every May, we focus on family, and I delivered a sermon series addressing grief and mental health. I was truly surprised by the response,” shared Pastor Charles E. Goodman.

The fair, which began four years ago, has become an integral initiative at the church, emphasizing mental health and well-being. “I believe each church has both the opportunity and responsibility to contribute in their own way,” he mentioned. “We think we can make a significant impact in our community by focusing on mental health and wellness.”

Pastor Goodman notes that the event has expanded to address the community’s needs, particularly following COVID-19, which highlighted mental health challenges. “The more people feel comfortable discussing mental health and wellness, the more significant it becomes,” Pastor Goodman said. “We aim to ensure it is not a taboo topic, especially within our community.”

The fair will take place on May 17th, offering a range of services and resources. “We’ll be there. We’re excited. It’s gonna be wonderful facilitators. We have some really counselors on deck.”

He also says it’s important to bring young people into the conversation, “People in elementary, primary school and those things, they wrestle with anxiety and other things as well,” he added.

This year’s event is free, but organizers are asking for people to register in advance. “You need Christ and a counselor. I believe that God empowers people with the educational ability, but also the sensitivity that can help us navigate through some very thorny patches of life,” Pastor Goodman said.

The fair will be held Saturday, May 17th, from 10 to 2 at Tabernacle Baptist Church in the Family Life Center on Laney Walker Boulevard.

To register, visit tbcaugusta.org.