PUNTA GORDA, Fla. — While many have focused on the race for the white house, local religious leaders say they've used that time for prayer.
Pastor Phil Keaton of Souls Harbour Church in Punta Gorda says the only outcome he's hoped for in the election is peace.
He says churches everywhere have rallied in prayer and shared similar messages of inspiration.
"Their future can be positive. That’s what message we want to send to everybody and give them some inspiration. You can have a better life. It doesn’t matter who is in the White House," said Keaton.
No, it's no Sunday service, but Keaton says it's an important reminder everyone could use on the day after Election Day.
The APA says it's a dramatic increase from the 52% that reported back in 2016.
This election week, he's encouraging voters to focus on peace, act with love, and spread joy, regardless of who's president.
"When we have peace within, we're able to give that peace to somebody else who maybe is not in a peaceful position right now. Maybe they’re angry and upset about the results but when we have that inner peace then we can transfer that to somebody else."
The pastor says anyone needing spiritual guidance during or after the election can reach out to Souls Harbour Church for help.
People interested in finding more information can visit their Facebook page by clicking here.
If you need immediate mental health help, people can also contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255 or the SAMHSA's National Helpline at 1-800-662-4357.
