Classic Program: Starter Facilitator Handbook for Healing Groups

Submit a “healing group” report when the trauma healing sessions are completed (see page 66). Groups may wish to continue on with other Bible study materials. Testimonies of how God is healing people in your group can bring glory to God and encourage people who are supporting your ministry. If you would like to share people’s testimonies with others, ask them if they are willing to have their story shared. Never coerce people. If they’re willing to share, have them sign the individual authorization form . If possible, let them review the story before you share it with others and withdraw authorization if they wish. Their well-being is the first concern. Also be sure to get permission for photos. Use the individual and/or group authorization form as needed (both on page 65). MATERIALS Participants at healing groups should have a copy of either the Healing the Wounds of Trauma book, or the Scripture Companion Booklet for Trauma Healing. If group members do not know the same songs, provide a song sheet so everyone can sing together. A sample song sheet is downloadable. Name tags may be useful if the group is large or the participants do not know each other. Certificates of participation are appreciated in some contexts (p. 64, or downloadable). Paper, markers, and pens are needed for the art expression exercise and writing laments. A flip chart is often helpful. Have facial tissues available. A cross and matches are needed for the “Taking your pain to the cross” exercise. A rope (or something else that can be used to tie two people together) is needed for the lesson on forgiveness. CONFIDENTIALITY The Bible repeatedly warns against gossip and indicates that a trustworthy person keeps a secret. The process of trauma healing requires a safe space for people to work through the materials and their own experiences. As a condition of their participation, members of healing groups are asked not to share information about others in the group—you can tell your story to anyone you wish, but you can only tell someone else’s story with their permission.

Organizing a Healing Group

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