Even in the most turbulent times, the church continues to serve as a pillar of strength and guidance. However, when faith leaders approach new-world problems with an old-world mindset, those who need help most end up feeling shut out and like they don’t fit into our worship spaces. To fully support all members of our communities, the modern church needs to be a trauma-informed church that fosters healing and understanding – making the church a true refuge for those in need.
What does a trauma-informed church look like? It actively works to:
- Create Safe Spaces: These spaces allow people to feel secure, whether they are attending services, engaging in online spaces, or participating in church events. For example, a veteran with PTSD might be sensitive to loud worship music, so trauma-informed churches consider various sensory triggers.
- Provide Compassionate Leadership: Faith leaders who understand trauma are better equipped to lead congregants through their pain. By recognizing signs of trauma and learning how to approach it with compassion, leaders can guide congregants to healing.
- Offer Healing Ministries: Dedicated healing ministries focus on the spiritual and mental well-being of congregants, offering services that address the deep needs of those carrying emotional burdens.
While some may assume these are qualities every church should naturally embody, trauma-informed care goes deeper by recognizing that for some, even traditional services can be triggering. For example, a sermon or song that references death, for instance, might bring overwhelming emotions for someone grieving a recent loss.
Trauma-informed care is not an attempt to remove time-honored elements from church service but rather an effort to provide accommodations and compassion for sensitive populations. By recognizing trauma and building spaces where people feel safe and understood, churches can minister in a way that’s compassionate and relevant, providing true refuge for those in need of healing.
To learn more about building a trauma-informed church or faith-based program, consider enrolling in one of Alliance for Greater Works’ industry-leading trainings for faith leaders.