Healing the Wounds of Trauma

People in the middle of a crisis often don’t have the ability to think in a clear way. If a decision has been made beforehand when there was time to study what God teaches, then it is much easier to do the right thing when a crisis comes. For example, one man from a war-torn country was threatened with death if he didn’t kill his child. In the crisis of the moment he did as they said. Later, he was very distressed and said, “If only I had thought about this beforehand, I would never have killed my child!” Crisis could come to a community in many ways: natural disas- ters (hurricanes, tornados, earthquakes, floods, landslides, or fires), bridge or building collapse, shootings, or terrorist attacks. Individu- als can experience personal crises such as being kidnapped, attacked, deported, or raped. Churches can plan and prepare together, in consul- tation with local government officials and disaster response agencies. If prepared, churches can respondmuchmore quickly and effectively in a crisis and protect the most vulnerable people from harm. We can prepare in three areas: practical, communication, and spiritual. 3. How can we prepare practically? Some groups are especially vulnerable during times of crisis, especially those who are elderly, very young, sick, or disabled. Poor people may also face higher risks because their homes are likely to be in more dangerous areas. ❂❂ SMALL GROUP DISCUSSION Think of the kinds of crises that are most likely to occur in your community. What practical preparations could you make? Have each small group discuss one or two of the questions below and then give feedback in the large group. 1. Think about the people in your home or church who are most at risk from disaster or attack. Who will help them? 2. What government or community services are available to help prepare and respond to a natural disaster or civil disturbance? Do you know how to contact them?

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Looking Ahead