EvFree Fullerton—Pastor’s Story in Leadership Journal

Leadership Journal published an article by Mike Erre in their Winter 2014 issue.

The Way of Weakness: What my struggle with anxiety and depression taught me about God’s power

Mike Erre

I had just transitioned from leading a college ministry to serving as the teaching pastor at RockHarbor Church (RH), a young, vibrant church plant.  I was honored and amazed at the opportunity God has set before me, and desired to make a good impression for those who had trusted me with this role.

Four days after I started at RH I injured my knee playing basketball and found myself hobbling around with a torn ACL, MCL, and PCL.  Surgery was performed five weeks later.  That first night out of surgery  I lay at home unable to sleep.  I’m still not sure what happened, but it felt like I was suffocating.  I felt a crushing weight on my chest and my heart began to race.  I couldn’t focus.  I was unable to relax.  I was completely, and irrationally, terrified.

I managed to get through the night in a Vicodin-induced haze, but my anxiety didn’t go away …

You can read more in the Winter 2014 issue of Leadership Journal.