Freefall to Fly explored the interconnectedness of psychology and Christian spirituality. The Center for Christian Thought hosted this event which filled Sutherland Hall to less than a quarter of capacity on Oct. 28. Students received one chapel credit for attending the session where they were encouraged to ask the panel questions.

EXPLORING PSYCHOLOGY AND CHRISTIAN SPIRITUALITY 

Undeclared freshman Arianna Gruber said the event made her think about the topic of suffering further. The discussion made her consider how suffering is something to learn and grow from, Gruber said.

However some students did not find the talk as engaging as others. Sophomore music performance major Olga Korolev said she felt the event’s discussions were hard to follow. The conversation between the featured presenters could have been organized better, Korolev said.

“I felt like it was pretty technical. When they got into the detailed stuff I got a little lost,” she said.

Rebekah Lyons is the author of “Freefall to Fly,” a book that details her struggles with anxiety and depression after moving to New York. Professor of pastoral care Eric Johnson and professor of psychology Elizabeth Hall joined Lyons in the discussion.

Lyons reflected on how surrendering her anxiety and depression to God gave her life meaning.

”I realized that there is a very direct connection between surrender and meaning. Surrender is nothing but our posture towards God,” Lyons said.

PRESENTERS ANSWERED QUESTIONS 

Each presenter shared their perspective for seven minutes regarding the concepts at hand. Afterward, they openly discussed questions that were posed by the audience via Tweets and an open microphone.

Lyons encouraged listeners to stop hiding their struggles with mental illness. She described how being vulnerable with others creates connectivity.

“Let’s stop comparing mental illness with spiritual weakness. It’s something I’m challenged by and something I strive for,” Lyons said.

Hall remarked on the importance of psychology in understanding human suffering while exploring the concept of suffering.

“Psychology helps us understand how good can come out of suffering. Suffering may be the most direct route to flourishing,” Hall said.

PART OF MIND & BODY FOCUS WEEK

Freefall to Fly was a part of Mind & Body Focus Week, which began Oct. 28 and continues until Nov. 2, said Evan Rosa, CCT communications coordinator. This week is sponsored by Student Development and the CCT. The theme of the week, “It Is Well,” explores perspectives through times that seem like anything but well. Freefall to Fly fit within the precepts of what it means to live mentally and physically well.

“CCT is not just think-think … We’re exploring a long-standing tradition of thoughtful and wise approach to living life well that was started by Jesus,” Rosa said.

Freshman elementary education major Alex Silva felt encouraged by the topics and concepts that were discussed regarding mental illness.

“I was really intrigued just by everything that they said about the struggles and adversities that people do face. I’m really glad I went to this event, ” Silva said.

CCT designed Freefall to Fly to encourage communication and engagement through sharing ideas, Rosa said.

“This event is really a good starting point for someone who wants to evaluate what the mind has to do with the spirit,” Rosa said.