Healing the Wounds of Trauma

on a meeting place if the family gets separated, and discuss different routes to get there. It is important that even very small children are capable of saying their name and their family name. Even a three- year-old can learn to do this. If families are separated, children who can clearly give this information can be reunited with their parents more rapidly than children who only know their first name. B. With the churches and the community Each community or neighborhood needs a shared plan on respond- ing to a disaster. People should know where to go and how to help in the recovery efforts. Churches should think about a plan to check on their members. Think also about what to do if cell phones, internet, and electricity are not working. C. With the outside world When trouble comes to an area, it is important to have a way of mak- ing this known to the outside world. • Decide who fromyour church or organization should be respon- sible for communicatingwith voluntary or government disaster relief agencies or the media. • Think specifically about who to contact and what you might need to say in different types of crises. • During or immediately after a crisis, take photos or videos to document events or losses. This may help rally support for recovery efforts or help bring perpetrators to justice.

5. How can we prepare spiritually for difficult situations? ❂❂ SMALL GROUP DISCUSSION

Divide into small groups. Have each group take one of the sec- tions below, look up the Scripture passages, and discuss the questions.Then have each group give feedback to the large group. Add other cases according to your situation.

117

Looking Ahead