Deacon Laverne S. Williams, CSW- Zoom Guest & topic on 5.18.21

During this time of crisis and uncertainty many rely on faith for support and stability. The community is invited to join Laverne S. Williams, CSW, a Deacon at the Union Baptist Church in Montclair, for a free Zoom.us session, entitled "Thankful Tuesdays." During these sessions, Deacon Williams and her special guests explore important topics centered around faith and spirituality. The program is offered at 2 p.m. every Tuesday: individuals may participate online through the Zoom link https://zoom.us/j/424719863?pw... or by visiting Zoom.us, Meeting ID number 424 719 863, Password 469922 or by calling 646-558-8656. The program may also be viewed on Facebook Live @MentalHealthAssociationinNewJerseyInc.

Tuesday, May18th, Deacon Williams' guest will be Pastor Shyrone Richardson. He is the Founder and Senior Pastor of World Outreach Christian Church, Jersey City, New Jersey, a church dedicated to Reaching the lost, through the gospel of Jesus Christ, Establishing disciples, through sound Biblical teaching, Serving God, through serving others, Transforming the world, through transformed lives. With over 25 years of ministry, he has quickly become a voice of hope in Jersey City and the surrounding area. His unique ministry style has enabled him to reach and impact the lives of both men and women of all ages, economic status, and ethnic backgrounds.

Pastor Shy’s servants’ heart and the desire to see community change, has led him to serve in various ministries. RCCW; Raleigh Correctional Center for Women, Persons County Jail System, P.S 15 Parent Council, Hamilton Park Nursing Home are just a few of his successful outreach endeavors. Pastor Shyrone has continued to use his voice for change in organizing’s such as Jersey City Together: a growing coalition of congregations and non-profits that work together to make a difference across Jersey City as well as the Interdenominational Ministerial Alliance of Jersey City, where he served as Vice President.

Pastor Shy is the author of Diary of a Son, a book that highlights the blessings of sonship. He is also an accomplished playwriter, with over 20 gospel plays and illustrated sermons that have led hundreds to make a decision to serve Jesus Christ.

He is married to Co-Pastor Rebecca Richardson, a phenomenal and mighty woman of God, in her own right, for over 27 years. Together, they have seen countless lives changed, healed and set free by the power and the incomparable love of God.

Laverne Williams, CSW is the Director of the PEWS (Promoting Emotional Wellness and Spirituality) Program for the Mental Health Association in New Jersey. Ms. Williams is a New Jersey Certified Social Worker, WRAP (Wellness & Recovery Action Plan) Facilitator, Mental Health First Aid Instructor, and Certified Grief Recovery Specialist. With over 35+ years of experience in mental health service, Ms. Williams is a highly sought- after conference keynote and workshop facilitator. Her workshops have been presented to numerous statewide and local agencies, consumer organizations and family member groups. As an advocate on behalf of persons with mental illness, and a Deacon at her church, Ms. Williams diligently develops partnerships between faith-based communities and behavioral health institutions by bridging the gap between theology and mental health.

Ms. Williams was quoted in the April 2017 #1 best-selling book, Option B – Facing Adversity, Building Resilience, and Finding Joy, by Sheryl Sandberg and Adam Gant.

To contact Deacon Williams please email lwilliams@mhanj.org.