Cheryle Dueck Smith recognized for article on loneliness

Fresno Pacific University faculty member and Director of the Center for Anabaptist Studies Cheryl Dueck Smith, D.Arts, recently received recognition from the Evangelical Press Association for an article examining loneliness and the role the church can play in fostering connection and belonging.

Dueck Smith earned fourth place in the Higher Goals in Christian Journalism category for her article, "All the lonely people," originally published in Christian Leader and republished on FPU's official blog, Sunny's Blog. The article explores how loneliness affects people throughout life and encourages churches to respond by creating meaningful opportunities for community and connection.

"At any age, people can get stuck in a cycle of loneliness," Dueck Smith says in the article. "Churches, when operating as Christ intended can offer connection for the lonely among us."

In response to the award, Dueck Smith expressed gratitude for the editors who supported her work and for the opportunity to write for the publication.

"This award was an unexpected honor," Dueck Smith said. "I am indebted to Lacy and Janae for their editorial support and guidance. Writing for Christian Leader has been such a gift to me and I am grateful to have been given the opportunity to encourage my Mennonite Brethren family."

To read the article, visit fresno.edu/sunnysblog

Michael Hammond
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